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diff --git a/.gitattributes b/.gitattributes new file mode 100644 index 0000000..d7b82bc --- /dev/null +++ b/.gitattributes @@ -0,0 +1,4 @@ +*.txt text eol=lf +*.htm text eol=lf +*.html text eol=lf +*.md text eol=lf diff --git a/LICENSE.txt b/LICENSE.txt new file mode 100644 index 0000000..6312041 --- /dev/null +++ b/LICENSE.txt @@ -0,0 +1,11 @@ +This eBook, including all associated images, markup, improvements, +metadata, and any other content or labor, has been confirmed to be +in the PUBLIC DOMAIN IN THE UNITED STATES. + +Procedures for determining public domain status are described in +the "Copyright How-To" at https://www.gutenberg.org. + +No investigation has been made concerning possible copyrights in +jurisdictions other than the United States. Anyone seeking to utilize +this eBook outside of the United States should confirm copyright +status under the laws that apply to them. diff --git a/README.md b/README.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..9c409c9 --- /dev/null +++ b/README.md @@ -0,0 +1,2 @@ +Project Gutenberg (https://www.gutenberg.org) public repository for +eBook #69142 (https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/69142) diff --git a/old/69142-0.txt b/old/69142-0.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 65a7e18..0000000 --- a/old/69142-0.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,11476 +0,0 @@ -The Project Gutenberg eBook of Given in Marriage, by Bithia Mary -Croker - -This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and -most other parts of the world at no cost and with almost no restrictions -whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or re-use it under the terms -of the Project Gutenberg License included with this eBook or online at -www.gutenberg.org. If you are not located in the United States, you -will have to check the laws of the country where you are located before -using this eBook. - -Title: Given in Marriage - -Author: Bithia Mary Croker - -Release Date: October 12, 2022 [eBook #69142] - -Language: English - -Produced by: MWS, Mary Meehan and the Online Distributed Proofreading - Team at https://www.pgdp.net (This file was produced from - images generously made available by The Internet - Archive/American Libraries.) - -*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK GIVEN IN MARRIAGE *** - - - - - - GIVEN IN MARRIAGE - - By B. M. Croker - - Author of "In Old Madras," "Lismoyle," etc. - - LONDON: HUTCHINSON & CO. - PATERNOSTER ROW--E.C. - - - - - CHAPTER I - - A STRANGER IN THE LAND - - -"I say, did you hear old pensioner Jones, jawing away to Haji Aboo -about the gold reefs, that lie round Tappah?" - -An eager young planter put this question to his companion, as together -they--or rather their horses--toiled up a sharp ascent. - -"Oh yes, _I_ heard him," grunted the other with a shrug. - -"And what did you think, Ted?" - -"That the old boy was drunk as usual," was the uncompromising -rejoinder. "Filthy Bazaar liquor; some of these days he'll snuff-out!" - -"Well, of course it's Shandy, but I've a notion, there is something in -his story. No smoke without fire! Eh? He swore that one or two of the -estates were chock full of gold." - -"Oh, there's gold enough in coffee, if you know how to work it," -declared Ted Dawson, an enthusiast at his trade. - -"Yes, but why not the other sort as well? Imagine two heavy crops--the -berry, and the nugget!" urged his partner. "I've heard that lame -Maistrey--whose ancestors lived here when these hills were opened -up--say, that the first planters were granted immense tracts for a mere -song, and that one or two of them like Pattador and Fairplains--run -right down to the low country, where there are old workings, smothered -in jungle." - -"Bosh!" ejaculated Ted, "I've heard these fool stories, but there's -nothing in them;" and he ruthlessly turned from this ever-dazzling -subject, to an unromantic discussion on bone manure and sulphate of -ammonia. - -The two planters, accompanied by a pack of dogs, were riding up the -steep, short cut leading to their joint estate, which was situated on -the western slopes of a hill range, in Southern India. Edward Dawson, -the elder of the pair, was a big, loosely put-together man, of five and -thirty (he looked considerably younger, thanks to his round, beardless -face), with almost lint-white locks, and candid blue eyes. His clothes -were decent--which is all that could be said for them; a cotton shirt, -wide open at the neck, canvas breeches, leather belt, and a battered -topee, completed his kit. - -Dawson was the son of a retired Indian general, who had wisely invested -part of his savings in coffee, when estates were cheap; and had thereby -provided for an heir of simple and bucolic tastes--a good, honest -fellow, who loved the land of his birth, was keen on his job, and spoke -Tamil and Canarese, with effective fluency. - -Nicholas Byng, his companion, cousin, and partner, was a slight, -young man, with neat features, quick, bright eyes, and a remarkably -clear idea of the importance of appearances--especially of his own -appearance. He wore a well-made drill suit and polo boots, and rode a -long-tailed, useful-looking, bay thoroughbred, bearing the discouraging -name of "Mad Molly." - -Byng, the darling of a widowed mother, had been intended for the -Army, but was "spun" so repeatedly, that his failure appeared to -have become a confirmed habit. The death of his parent put an end to -further efforts, and a certain high-handed uncle then deported him to -the Chicknabullnay Estate. Here, for the first time in his career, -he put his unaccustomed shoulder to the wheel, and, after a year's -apprenticeship, became partner and sub-manager. He liked the life. - -Teddy, for all his unconventional, "jungly" ways, was a good sort; -a strong man, who kept the reins in his ugly big fists, and was -master. His partner enjoyed ample liberty and holidays--oh, it was -not _all_ "coffee"--and Nicky was able to disport himself in Madras, -and fashionable--alas! rather remote--hill stations; he got a bit of -shooting, was making money, and, on the whole, the billet suited him -down to the ground. - -The couple had been to the foot of the ghât on business connected with -the transport of their crops; every yard they now travelled carried -them further and further from dense, tropical forests, sweltering -heat, and swampy valleys, and nearer to the quiet beauty of the grassy -uplands. - -Turning a sharp corner, they debouched into a little glade where three -tracks met, and here, with a slight shock of surprise, discovered that -prominent figure in early Victorian fiction, known as "a solitary -horseman." - -Dawson, who was still expounding on the scandalous price of bone -manure, broke off his sentence with: - -"I say,--who's this?" - -"Hello, good afternoon," said the stranger, raising a smart topee, "I -heard your voices, and waited. I don't know these parts, and I'm afraid -I've lost my bearings." - -The "lost one" was a well set-up, self-possessed individual, mounted on -a fine waler cob, and accompanied by a wiry, and more than half-naked -syce. - -"I expect we will soon put you all right," said Byng,--ever the -speaking partner--"Where are you bound for?" - -"A place called Fairplains; the estate of one James Fletcher." - -"Then you are just five miles out; you overshot the mark by that native -village among the plantain trees, near the bridge. Why didn't you stick -to the road?" - -"Well, I suppose because I'm an adventurous idiot," was the modest -reply, "and I was told that a bridle-path cut off seven miles." - -"So it does,--but it depends upon _which_ bridle-path. This one has put -you on, a good ten." - -"I say, what a confounded nuisance!" exclaimed the wanderer, looking -down at his blown, and sweating, steed. - -"Our place is barely a mile from here," announced Dawson, speaking -for the first time. "Come on with us, have a drink, give the gee a -feed, and a rub-down, and we will send a coolie to put you on the way -to Fairplains--unless you'll stay the night?" he added, with true -planter's hospitality. - -"Thanks awfully, but I'd better shove on. I'll be glad to stop an hour -at your diggings, and give the cob a rest--he's pretty well done." - -"Not the usual 'Hirling,' I see," remarked Byng. - -"No, I brought him from Cananore; he is awfully soft--that climate is -only fit for horned cattle!" - -"Yes, beastly wet," agreed Byng, his bright eyes taking in the -well-knit figure and military bearing of the cob's master. "Your -regiment quartered there?" - -"It is--my name is Mayne--Derek Mayne--an uncle of mine is a pal of -Fletcher's, he invited me up for six weeks' shooting--and naturally I -came like a shot!" - -"But Fletcher has gone home--went off ten days ago!" - -"What do you say?" cried Mayne, reining up his horse. - -"It's a fact; he has been rather seedy, and ran down to see a doctor in -Madras, who ordered him to start then and there for London--it was a -case for an immediate operation." - -"Poor chap! I'm most awfully sorry. Well," after a reflective pause, -"I'm in a pretty big hole. I had a line from Fletcher three weeks -ago, and I've got my leave all right, and have written to announce my -arrival, but the shoot is off! I suppose I must make for one of these -hill stations. I can't tell you how I've been looking forward to this -shikar trip--my first." - -"Oh, I expect you will be all right," said Dawson reassuringly; -"Fletcher is bound to have left instructions; he is a most reliable old -boy. Let me introduce myself. My name is Dawson, and this," waving a -huge paw, "is my cousin, Nicholas Byng. We run a coffee estate known as -Chicknabullnay,--but called by our neighbours 'The Corner.' He is the -ornamental, and I'm the working partner." - -"Come, I like that!" broke in his cousin: "I live with my nose to the -grindstone. I've been on duty since six o'clock this morning; down at -Burliar, making a bundobast for our crop." - -"We would give you some shooting," continued Dawson, "but nothing like -what you'd get at Fairplains--that has always had a Shikari owner, who -knows the best grounds, and beats in the low country, as well as he -knows his A B C, and can call out any amount of good, plucky beaters." - -"Well, I sincerely hope it _will_ be all right, as you believe, and -that the manager has been warned by Fletcher; otherwise, it's no great -matter, as I am a complete stranger to them both. I say, what a mixed -multitude!" pointing to the pack. - -"Yes, all sorts and conditions," replied Byng, "and a real good -specimen of an average planter's pack, only ours are absolutely -healthy--no red mange." - -"But what variety!" said Mayne, turning in his saddle to survey them. -"A fox hound, three beagles, a deer-hound, half a dozen fox terriers, -several--any other sort--a bull terrier, and what was once a poodle." - -"Yes, and the poodle has the brains of the lot. You see how it is; -people going home are glad to leave their dogs in a good climate. Most -of ours, have a history! The deer-hound was given to me by a girl, the -poodle came from a French priest at Pondicherry, the fox-terrier with -the black head, belonged to a poor chap who died. They get on together -fairly well, all being fond of sport, and they have a rattling good -time." - -"Lucky dogs!" - -"Yes," put in Dawson, "hunting, drawing sholahs for sambur, and pig, -and at home, there are rats and bandicoots. Two dog-boys feed and brush -them--and a few live indoors." - -"A _few_!" echoed Byng, "make it a dozen! The poodle and -fox-terriers,--like the poor,--are always with us, and I've found a -couple of beagles in my bed before now, and"--as an old retriever came -slowly towards the party, "here comes a pensioner to welcome us. This -is Chicknabullnay." - -For the last quarter of a mile, the journey had been on a well-metalled -cart road, and through a crop of dense green coffee bushes; now, a -sudden curve brought the back of a long, low bungalow with adjoining -gardens, stores, and stables, into sight. As the trio rode down a steep -slope, dog-boys, and syces, hurried forward to claim their respective -charges. - -The guest dismounted rather stiffly, and was escorted by Dawson -straight through the house, and into the front verandah. Here the view -that lay before them was startlingly unexpected; low hills to right -and left had, as it were, been cleft by some volcanic convulsion, and -disclosed a far-away, and exquisite, blue panorama of the plains. - -"Oh I say!" Mayne exclaimed involuntarily. - -"Hits you bang in the eye, doesn't it?" was Dawson's complacent -rejoinder. "Most planters manœuvre for a fine outlook--the one up at -Fairplains is the same--but Fletcher swears, ten times better. Now come -along inside, and have a wash." - - - - - CHAPTER II - - "THE CORNER" - - -For a bachelor abode "The Corner" proved unexpectedly comfortable, and -well-furnished. - -"Wouldn't you swear a couple of old maids lived here?" said Dawson, as -he ushered his guest into the dining-room. "This is all Byng's doing," -pointing to a precisely-laid table,--where four little hill-ferns, in -four little white china wheelbarrows, supported a central ornament. "He -found things pretty rough and tumbled, when he joined me three years -ago." - -"You may say so!" corroborated his cousin, now entering sleek-headed -and refreshed, unfolding a smart silk handkerchief as he spoke. "Why, -there was hardly a sheet or a towel--nothing but rags--only one -tumbler, one breakfast-cup, and two plates, both cracked!" - -"Oh come, draw it mild!" protested the other. "Anyhow, the Missy--I -call him the 'Missy'--gives picnics and tiffins, we have an ice -machine, a piano, and lace-edged tea-cloths! Now sit down, I'm sure you -are starving." - -A black-bearded butler brought in a substantial cold hump, salad, roast -potatoes, bread, butter, cheese, and a huge cake; whilst his satellite, -an attendant chokra, supplied each of the company with a long and -well-iced peg. - -"Not much of the old maid in this quarter!" remarked Mayne, when he had -swallowed a few mouthfuls, indicating the splendid tiger-skins, and -heads, that surrounded the party. "That bison--I say, what a fellow!" -surveying the trophy with eyes of envious respect. - -"Yes, a good specimen," assented Dawson. "You should see those at -Fairplains. Travers is the finest shot in Southern India. Have you ever -done any big game shooting?" - -"Nothing bigger than a hare! I've always been mad keen on trophies, and -when my uncle wrote about this invitation, I nearly stood on my head. -Supposing Fletcher's manager has received no instructions, and gives me -the boot?" - -"No fear," rejoined Byng emphatically. "Travers is the great shikari in -these hills, a magnificent shot, and absolutely without a nerve in his -body. If you are a keen sportsman--a red-hot enthusiast--he will love -you as a son, or brother." - -"How splendid! What's he like?" - -"I'll tell you all about him, when we adjourn outside. Have one of -these Trichys?" - -With a Trichy between his fingers, Mayne followed his host into the -verandah, and there, subsided into a deep and seductive chair. His eyes -ranged over the unfamiliar outlook, of rich green coffee bushes, heavy -forestry, and vague, blue plains, as he meditatively rolled the cheroot. - -"It's rather a painful story about Laurence Travers," began Byng, -blowing a cloud. - -"Then--er--perhaps you'd rather----" - -"Oh, it's common property--no scandal. Travers' father lived to -spend his last penny, and left nothing but debt for the family. So -Laurence, instead of going into the Army, came out here when he was -two and twenty; he had a little capital, and started coffee planting -at Fairplains. After a good season, he went home on three months' -leave,--and got caught, coming out!" - -"Caught!" repeated Mayne. - -"Fell head over ears in love with a fellow passenger; a young governess -bound for a situation in Melbourne. She had not a penny, needless to -say. They were married, and lived very happily, in spite of the wrath -of his relations,--whose chief asset was family pride. Mrs. Travers did -up the house, started a garden, rode about all over the place, and made -heaps of friends; she was Irish, very pretty, lively, hospitable, and -an immense favourite. Those were fat years for coffee too--and Travers -prospered." - -"Oh, get on!--don't be so long-winded!" growled Dawson, who was nursing -a fox terrier, whilst jealous dogs of various sorts surrounded his -chair. - -"Well," resumed Byng, "after a good while, there was the usual baby--a -girl. Travers was in the seventh heaven, but Mrs. Travers somehow began -to go down hill, though she would not give in; other people saw it, and -urged her to take a change, or to go home. She stuck it out, that she -was as strong as a horse. However, when the child was about a year old, -Travers, coming in late one afternoon, discovered her sitting in the -verandah,--as he supposed asleep,--with the baby on her lap. When it -turned out that she was stone dead, he went nearly raving mad; in those -days the place was a bit isolated, neighbours were far off; not like it -is now,--the Ffinches and Hicks within a couple of miles. Strange to -say, the servants had the sense to put away his razors and fire-arms, -and to send for the nearest doctor. He gave Travers a sedative, and -found that Mrs. Travers had died of long-standing heart disease. She -was buried in her garden. - -"After this blow, Travers appeared to have no further interest in -anything in the wide world,--bar the kid. She had a superior English -nurse, and the most wonderful frocks, sashes, and dolls, that had ever -been seen on these hills. Travers could not bear her out of his sight, -and brought her about with him everywhere,--even shooting. When Nancy -was six, she got typhoid--our crystal clear streams are deceptive--and -she nearly went out, and had to be sent home. Her father took this -separation terribly to heart; after her departure, they say, he used -to sit for hours, in a sort of dream, just smoking, and staring into -space! Some people thought he was going dotty; and it sounds a funny -thing to say, but in a way, the child was his _ruin_! An irresistible -magnet, that drew him to England, and often at the most critical -seasons. There, he had no occupation; here, his coffee estate was going -to pot. Other planters warned him, but in spite or all they could say, -he would leave as manager, one, Doria, a cunning half-caste,--such an -oily persuasive rascal,--to take on his job. - -"There had been bad seasons, and losses,--common to the whole -community, and this fellow urged Travers to raise a mortgage, and -Travers, who wanted ready money, and was dying to be off home, agreed, -and departed. Then Doria, left to his own devices, set about to rob -and plunder in the most shameless way; he pocketed a whole season's -profits, also large arrears of debts--and cleared out, leaving no -address." - -"I believe he is in South America," interposed Dawson. "Go on, -Nicky--you'd make your fortune in the Bazaar!" - -"I think," resumed Byng, "that it must be nearly five years since -Travers returned, and found himself completely smashed. He made a -desperate effort to pull things together, but it was too late; the -coffee was neglected, and blighted, the bungalow full of mildew and -cobwebs,--and the mortgagees were calling for their capital. I must -say, they behaved infernally badly; would not give Travers a dog's -chance; foreclosed, and sold up Fairplains. Fletcher bought it, lock, -stock and barrel, and kept on Travers, as his manager. He has a -bungalow, and four hundred rupees a month--and is worth _double_. When -Fletcher is away--he is boss, and lives in the big house." - -"Where he was once lord, and master!" exclaimed Mayne. "What -frightfully hard luck,--I wonder he stayed on." - -"Hobson's choice! He'd got to live, and to pay for the kiddie at home. -Now she is grown up, and out--and----" - -"Do you mean to tell me," interrupted Mayne, pushing back his chair, -"that there is a girl at Fairplains?" - -"I am thankful to say there _is_! She is the life and soul of the -neighbourhood. We should all be uncommonly dull without our Nancy--she -is full of energy, and true _joie-de-vivre_--does everything bang off -on the spur of the moment, and is the apple of her father's eye." - -"And mine," supplemented Dawson, "apple of both eyes." - -"Yes, she put new life into Travers," resumed Byng, "he is like another -man; goes all over the place to picnics, and tennis, and takes an -interest in his personal appearance--not like my cousin here," with a -contemptuous gesture of his thumb. - -"Oh, go on!" grunted Dawson, "_I_ haven't thirty-eight ties hanging on -a string--I've no red silk socks--and no looks! Travers, though he is -nearly fifty, is far and away the handsomest fellow in these parts; -he's like a king! I suppose it's the old blue blood--and one of the -best, into the bargain." - -Mayne listened with ill-suppressed impatience to this long eulogy. -What were the handsome planter, and the apple of his eye, to him? His -programme must be entirely revised. - -"But I say," he broke in at last. "It's one thing to go shooting with -a bachelor, my uncle's old pal--but another pair of shoes, to quarter -myself on his manager, who has a grown-up daughter--even if he wanted -to go for a week's shikar, he could not leave her at home alone." - -"Oh, she goes with him," was Dawson's staggering announcement, "she's -an A1 shot." - -"Then _that_ settles it," declared Mayne, rising to his feet. "Two is -company! Only my baggage is on its way to Fletcher's, I'd ask for a -bed here, and start down the ghât to-morrow. Anyway, I won't stay at -Fairplains more than a couple of days." - -"Oh, _won't_ you?" said Byng, with ironical emphasis, "I advise you -to 'wait and see.' Nancy won't be the fly in the ointment--she's -a rattling good little housekeeper, and will make you uncommonly -comfortable. She does not always go out shooting; sometimes Mrs. Ffinch -comes over, and keeps her company--they are tremendous pals." - -"Yes, if you are really anxious to see first-class sport," broke in -Dawson, "don't let a scruple, or a little girl, stand in your way. Take -my advice, and make no arrangements, till you have seen Fairplains for -yourself." - -"Well, I daresay you are right," said Mayne, after a weighty silence. -"It does seem rather rotten, to have taken this long journey, and be, -so to speak, headed off by a petticoat. I--might be sorry afterwards." - -"You are bound to be," rejoined Dawson with conviction. - -"All right then, I'll push on. Have the Travers any neighbours besides -yourselves, and this Mrs. What-you-may-call her?" - -"Oh, yes, the Ffinches at Clouds Rest, are within two miles--there are -only the two of them. He, given over body and soul, to money-making, -and coffee--otherwise just Mrs. Ffinch's husband! She, is our local -dynamo, and keeps everything going;--extraordinarily clever woman, -absolutely wasted out here;--would make a great Prime Minister, or -Secretary for Foreign Affairs. Then we have the Hicks'. Dr. and Mrs. -and two girls; he was doctor on board a liner--and picked up a lady -passenger." - -"More of a passenger, than a lady," corrected Dawson, "but a rare good -sort." - -"And the girls ditto," continued his cousin. "These are our nearest--if -not dearest. You'll soon get to know everyone, and everyone will know -you,--and give you lots of sport." - -"Well then, I think I'll make a start, if you'll send for the cob, and -syce; it's seven o'clock." - -"It's a fine starlight night, and no hurry; only the Travers' are early -birds," said Dawson, when Mayne's cob was led up. "There's a coolie to -guide you. I expect we shall see you pretty often--mind you look in, -when you can." - -"Upon my word, I don't know how to thank you! You have been most -awfully good in taking me in like this," said Mayne. "Perhaps Fletcher -has not written; and you may have me back on your hands to-morrow -morning," and with a laugh, and a salute, he sprang into the saddle, -and cantered away, closely pursued by syce, and coolie. - -"A real cheery chap!" remarked Dawson, as he looked after the parting -guest; "no 'haw-haw' nonsense about him. I like his eyes,--and he -laughs like a boy." - -"Boy! He must be seven or eight and twenty," said Byng, "may be more. -Money, I should say. I noticed his watch, and he paid a smart sum for -that cob. He's not a bad-looking chap--I hope he won't turn the child's -head?" - -"Not likely!" rejoined Dawson, "Nancy's head is too well screwed on, -and she has no room for anyone in her thoughts, but her Daddy--as for -that fellow, his one and only object in life, is to bag a tiger!" - -Having pronounced this dictum, Dawson flung himself into a long cane -chair, and picked up _The Planter's Gazette_. - - - - - CHAPTER III - - THE GIRL AT FAIRPLAINS - - -Proceeding through the coffee estate at a sort of dog's trot, Mayne -was sorely exercised in his mind; being filled with serious misgivings -concerning the planter's daughter; probably a pert, autocratic little -minx, after the manner of the usual "apples of eyes," who would no -doubt prove--as far as he was concerned--a real spoil-sport! For days -he had indulged in glowing visions of a rough outdoor life; of camps, -long marches, exciting stalks, heavy spoils, and freedom! - -Could a manager leave his estate? and if he did, and brought his -encumbrance, how hateful and irksome to have this girl tacked on to -the party! Well, he could soon see how the land lay, and if the -outlook was too discouraging, would hurry off and spend his leave in -Ceylon--where he might,--with any luck--get an elephant or two. - -It was a lovely starlight evening, and after the hot and clammy -atmosphere of Cananore, the thin cool hill air, with its tang of -eucalyptus, was as refreshing as a draught of spring water. Up various -steep coolie paths, bordered by clumps of aromatic blue gum, and ragged -bushes, and round many sharp corners, Mayne followed his light-footed -leader. Presently they came upon a good metalled road, running through -coffee, and above them, on a raised plateau, stood Fairplains, with -lighted windows, and lanterns flickering like fire-flies about the -premises. - -As Mayne approached, the barking of many dogs was deafening, and he -halted just below the bungalow. When he did so, the majestic figure -of an elderly butler, appeared at the top of a flight of stone steps, -brandishing a lantern in one hand, and salaaming profoundly with the -other. - -"Is the sahib at home?" inquired Mayne. - -"Yes, saar, please to come up, saar?" - -Thus invited, the visitor dismounted, and ascended to the verandah; and -as he did so, caught sight, within a room, of a girl reading. By the -light of a shaded lamp, he invisioned a wisp-like figure in white, and -a bent head crowned with a mass of hair. - -"Francis!" called out a clear young voice, "why are those dogs making -such a noise? Is it the panther again?" - -"No, missy," replied the servant reassuringly, "no panther -to-night--only one gentleman." - -Missy lifted her head, and beheld Mayne standing in the doorway. As she -rose to her feet, he discovered that the word "little" did not fit Miss -Nancy Travers, who was rather tall than otherwise. - -"I hope you will pardon this late and audacious intrusion," he began, -removing his topee as he spoke. "My name is Mayne--Mr. Fletcher, my -uncle's old friend, invited me up here for some shooting. I only -discovered a couple of hours ago, that Mr. Fletcher has gone home, and -had no time to make other arrangements--but----" - -"It is quite all right," she declared with serene composure, "this is -Mr. Fletcher's bungalow, and naturally you are welcome. Francis will -get you some supper at once." - -"I suppose you had no letter--you did not expect me?" he inquired, -advancing to the table. - -"No, but that makes no difference. We are accustomed to stray -visitors, and always glad to see them. Planters, doctors, chaplains, -and missionaries, drop in from time to time. Won't you sit down?" -indicating a chair; a half-finished game of chess was on the table -between them. "Father and I were playing, when he was sent for to see -to a sick coolie. He will be back in a few minutes." - -"Did I hear you say something about a panther just now?" asked Mayne -abruptly. - -"Yes, they come down from the rocks above us, and prowl round after -dark, and carry off dogs if they can; last week one of them took the -dhoby's best goat!" - -"Then the shooting about here must be good?" - -"I'm afraid father has not left much in the immediate neighbourhood; -for real sport, you have to go down the ghât--I mean for bison and -tiger--hereabouts, there are only sambur, and wild pig." - -"And panthers?" supplemented Mayne. - -"Yes, too many of them! Such treacherous, cruel, brutes, and very bold. -More dangerous in their way than tiger--Father says the tiger is a -gentleman--the panther a bounder." - -"I wish I could get a shot at one." - -"No doubt you will have a chance. Did you come far to-day?" - -"From the railway. I arrived from Cananore last night, and stopped at -the Dâk bungalow. My guns and traps are following me, but I really -don't like to billet myself on you, and your father." - -Since he had been in the company of Miss Travers, Mayne had been -anxiously endeavouring to distinguish her appearance; but a heavily -shaded lamp left, beyond the mere outline, everything to conjecture; -and, save an impression that she had a small face, large eyes, and a -thin brown hand,--the lady's looks, remained an unknown quantity. - -At this moment, Travers, who had been prescribing for a stomach-ache -in the coolie lines, reappeared, unaware of the arrival of a visitor. -As he stepped into the verandah, he heard talking--a strange voice, -vibrant and attractive,--the voice of a gentleman; and there, sitting -in his own pet chair, was someone whose sleek dark head, and white -collar, appeared above its cushions. - -He entered promptly, received a hasty and apologetic explanation, and -became at once the cordial and hospitable host. The dark-haired young -fellow, was evidently an Army man, with pleasant easy manners. - -A description of his journey was presently cut short by the -announcement that "Supper was ready on the table," and as Travers -hurried his guest into the dining-room, the young lady disappeared. - -Supper was laid out with an unexpected display of fine damask, cut -glass, and shining silver, and the new-comer did ample justice to an -excellent meal of which the _pièce de résistance_ was cold hump. There -was a sameness in the planters' homes, not only confined to food; here -again were dead trophies, and not a few live dogs; but dogs, trophies, -and surroundings, were all on a superior, and more imposing scale, than -that of the _ménage_ at "The Corner." - -Travers, noticing his guest's attention fixed upon a valuable old -sideboard, said: - -"I see you are looking at the Chippendale! This place is no mushroom, -and been established over eighty years. I took it from the executors -of a very old planter, who started it, and collected no end of good -furniture, plate and glass, from auctions and sales--the break-up of -families, who were pioneers in these hills." - -Presently the conversation turned to the subject nearest to the -wayfarer's heart, "shikar." On such a topic, the two were in the -most profound, and, so to speak, deadly sympathy. Mayne listened -enthralled--to an excellent supper--to vivid descriptions of beats and -bags, "near shaves," and glorious triumphs. Afterwards the sportsmen -smoked in the verandah, and exchanged views on a surprising variety of -subjects, from the stars in their courses, to the preserving of skins, -and the imperative use of arsenical soap. - -Later, as Travers escorted his guest to the spare room, he said: - -"I expect we shall be able to show you some fairly good sport." - -"I'm sure of it," responded Mayne, "but by no means so sure, that I -ought to trespass on your good nature. For all _you_ know, I may be an -impudent impostor!" - -"Oh, I'll risk that," replied Travers with a hearty laugh, then as he -turned to withdraw, "Make yourself at home--and sleep well." - - * * * * * - -Next morning, the dâk-wallah's brown leather bag carried the English -mail to Fairplains, and among papers and advertisements were two or -three letters for Travers, including one from Mr. Fletcher. He wrote -from a nursing home in London, and gave a belated notice of the -prospective arrival of the nephew of his old friend, Richard Mayne: - -"I don't know the young man personally," he said, "but if he is like -his uncle, he will be all right. Mayne is in the Porcupines on the -West Coast, is mad keen to see some sport, and could not be in better -hands than yours. His father is dead, and his mother has married again. -My friend, a bachelor, is a man of large property, and I fancy your -visitor will be his heir. He has a little money of his own--and they -say, brains. Let him have my guns, and the brown pony, do your best -for him, and don't let him flirt with Nancy. I'm not much better, and -the doctors talk of having another 'go' at me. How did our ancestors -live without these operations? They died, I suppose. Well, we must all -go--sometime----" - -The remainder of the letter was filled up with business directions, -suggestions, and interrogations. - - * * * * * - -When Mayne came out of his room in the morning, he sat on the steps, -and greedily devoured the delicious pearly prospect; it was similar to -the one from "The Corner," but finer, and more extensive. - -"Isn't it lovely?" said a clear voice, and looking round he beheld Miss -Travers. - -Seen by the clear and impartial light of day, her appearance was -disappointing; a tall slip of a girl with deeply sunburnt face, in -which was set a pair of wide-open grey eyes; and Mayne was struck by -the intensely youthful expression of these eyes--that now regarded him -curiously; her hair, very thick and wavy, was of a tawny red--almost -the same shade as her complexion; a white linen frock emphasized a -slim, rather boyish figure, and made no attempt to hide a pair of -surpassingly neat ankles. Nancy's age was possibly sixteen, and to sum -up her personality in one word, Mayne's hostess was neither more nor -less, than a happy-looking, well-grown flapper! - -"I never tire of it," she resumed; "if I am bored, or in a bad temper, -I just sit here and stare--and it always soothes me." - -"Are you ever in a bad temper?" inquired Mayne, who had risen, and was -looking up at her. - -"Don't ask _me_--ask Daddy," she answered with a gay smile, revealing a -set of perfect teeth, "I'm afraid he will say it's--fiery!" - -"May be your hair has something to say to it?" - -"Probably! When I was a small child, it was much worse,--other girls -pretended to warm their hands on my head. It has grown deeper in shade, -and I have hopes, that it may yet be black." - -"It will be white before that." - -"How smart of you!" she exclaimed, seating herself. "How did you sleep?" - -"Like an infant." - -"Really? Sometimes they scream all night! 'An infant crying in the -night,'" she quoted. "And so you lost your way yesterday?" - -"I believe so--and only for two good Samaritans, I might be wandering -still." - -"You met Mr. Dawson, and Mr. Byng?" - -"Yes, they were kind enough to put me up, and to lend me a guide. I -say, what an oddly-matched couple to run in double harness!" - -"They are; but it's so good for them; they counteract each other's -failings, and get on splendidly--the same as people who marry their -opposites." - -"Do they? I see you know all about it!" said Mayne, now sitting down -beside her, and warding off the attentions of a fine bull terrier. - -"Go away, Sammy," commanded his mistress, "I'll talk to _you_ by and -by." Then to Mayne, "Are you trying to be sarcastic?" - -"Perish the thought!" - -"And I _do_ know all about it--within our small circle, every married -person is the exact contrast to their partner. You will soon be able to -judge for yourself--as for Teddy Dawson--we are all christian names up -here----" - -"May I call you by yours?" asked Mayne audaciously. - -"In a few days--perhaps----" - -"Thank you; and you were speaking about Teddy Dawson?" - -"So I was; he is so practical and hard-working, and loves -coffee-planting, but is rather rough and untidy. If you had only seen -'The Corner' before Nicky arrived! The Bungalow was crammed with sacks -of coffee, tins of kerosine, and packs of dogs--scarcely a chair to sit -on. Ah! here is father at last!" - -As Travers dismounted from a shaggy estate pony, and approached, -Mayne realized that he was undeniably handsome; dark, with finely cut -features, and noble bearing; the gallant air, that descends in certain -families, from generation to generation. - -"Too hot for the steps, Nance!" he said, laying his hand on her head, -"and no topee! Away with you into the verandah." But Nancy merely -lifted a slender arm to thrust back a hair-pin. "How are you, Mayne? I -heard all about you this morning." - -"_All_, sir? That's rather a large order; but I gather that you have -had a letter from Fletcher?" - -"Yes, poor old boy, I'm afraid he is in a bad way. He is anxious you -should have good sport. I believe I can manage a big beat next week, -and I've arranged to draw a small sholah this afternoon." (A sholah is -a deep fold in the hills indicated by trees and undergrowth). "We may -get a jungle sheep, or a pig." - -"Anything will be a novelty to me," declared Mayne. - -"I can lend you Fletcher's rifle, till your own comes up; in fact, he -said you were to use his battery and----" - -"But, father," interrupted the girl, "you have forgotten that this is -tennis day! The Hicks, the Ffinches, and the 'Corner' boys, are coming." - -"Oh, by Jove, yes! but you will be all right without us. You can -tackle more than that, my little Nance." Aside to Mayne, "She manages -everyone." - -"Now you are thinking of Mrs. Ffinch," protested Nancy, "what excuse -could I offer? You know Captain Calvert is still at 'Clouds Rest,' and -with the Hicks, Andrew Meach, and the Pollards, she said we ought to -make up three sets." - -"To-day or to-morrow is all one to me," was Mayne's generous -announcement,--for he was secretly longing to be off within the hour. - -"Oh, well, Mr.--or is it Captain--Mayne?" He nodded. "I will try and -arrange the tennis somehow, and let father carry you off to draw the -'Bandy' sholah." - -The immediate result of such magnanimous permission, was an animated -dispute; each party clamouring to yield to the other; finally it was -decided, that the sportsmen were to remain at home. - -"It will give you an opportunity of meeting some of our neighbours," -said Travers; then turning to his daughter, "Nancy child, five minutes -ago, I asked you to go in out of the sun." - -"Yes, dear, but you know very well that my hair is as thick as a roof -thatch, and my skull is bomb-proof." - -"Ah, I'm afraid this is a day, when you don't feel very good?" - -"Oh, Daddy--please----!" - -"Come along," he interrupted, taking her gently under the arms, raising -her to her feet, and drawing her into the verandah. Then to Mayne--who -had followed them, "When this sun-worshipper was a small, and unruly -mite, she obligingly prepared me for the worst, by announcing, 'Daddy, -I don't feel very good to-day.'" - -"Oh, that story has been told all over the hills since I was two years -old!" protested Miss Nancy. "People are always quoting it. Don't you -think, Captain Mayne, that it is too bad of Daddy to give me away?" - -"Make your mind easy, my dear child, your old Daddy will never give you -away. Now come along into the dining-room, and give us some breakfast, -and let Captain Mayne sample our famous Fairplains coffee." - - - - - CHAPTER IV - - THE COFFEE ESTATE - - -The Fairplains coffee, fully maintained its high reputation, and the -accompanying food was on the same satisfactory level; fresh cream, -bread and butter, apricot jam, and new-laid eggs, grilled ham and -chicken--what a welcome change, from the sodden West Coast fare, to -which Mayne had been accustomed. Besides the menu, he could not help -being impressed by the deep mutual affection, existing between Travers -and his daughter; how quietly she forestalled all his requirements, -how his dark eyes softened, when they met her glance, and how the pair -laughed, and chaffed, one another with light-hearted enjoyment. - -Mayne cast a thought to the domestic atmosphere of his own home. What -a contrast to this! There, a fashionably youthful woman of fifty, -shrank from the too convincing appearance of a son of seven and twenty, -and her early morning manner was particularly chilly and acidulated. -Breakfast was never a convivial meal. - -Lady Torquilstone, an only child and heiress, among her many suitors, -had, to the disappointment of her parent, accepted handsome Derek -Mayne, a mere officer,--and not even an eldest son! and accompanied him -when he joined his regiment in India. As soon as the glamour of a new -life, and a new world, had worn off, the lady drooped. In India, she -found a dreadful spirit of equality--no nicely partitioned sets, only -the sternest rule of "precedence," in short, from her point of view no -"society" whatever! - -Money failed to give her the prominent position she considered to be -her right, she was merely Mrs. Derek Mayne, a Captain's wife, and one -of the herd! Unfortunately the marriage was not a success; the heiress -was discontented, and irritable, she snubbed and tyrannized over her -good-natured husband,--and spent most of her time in England. - -Captain Mayne died in Jubbulpore of cholera,--when his happy wife -was dancing at a London ball,--and within the least conventional -period, his widow married Lord Torquilstone, an elderly, but well -preserved peer, and hardened man of the world; they shared the same -tastes--particularly racing, and Bridge--and lived for eight months of -the year in a gloomy, but imposing house in Mayfair,--where it required -a combination of three men-servants, to open the hall door. - -Derek Mayne Junior had never been permitted to become "an encumbrance"; -school, Sandhurst, and his Uncle Richard, lifted the weight of child, -boy, and man, from his mother's shrinking shoulders,--and he made only -an occasional and brief appearance at his so-called "Home." - -"I'm afraid you will have lots of spare time on your hands," said -Travers to his guest. "This is our busy season, and I can only get off -for a shoot now and then,--but Nancy will take you on, when I have an -extra full day." - -"What do you call a full day?" - -"Well, when I start at seven, with roll call of the coolies, am out -till twelve; after a rest and tiffin, I go round and see how the -weeding and picking is done? then to the factory to weigh coffee, -afterwards attend to office work, which sometimes carries me on till -eleven o'clock at night." - -"But I don't allow that _now_," said Nancy with a proprietary gesture. - -"No," agreed Travers, "because this young lady wants a playfellow, and -has no conception of the labour and anxieties, that belong to a coffee -estate. Sometimes a planter will awake, to find what has been compared -to a fall of snow,--the blossom in flower! It is a pretty sight; but -for three days, he lives in a quaking agony for fear of rain--rain -would spell the ruin of the whole crop. To insure a good setting of the -bean or berry, we must have several days of sunshine." - -"I suppose the picking is all done by hand?" said Mayne, who from his -place could observe various black heads bobbing about among the coffee -bushes. - -"Yes, I get my labour from Mysore. I must take you down to the -pulping-house, and let you see some of the process." - -"I gather that coffee-planting is an uncertain business?" - -"You may say so!" replied Travers. "We are liable to leaf disease, -rain, and rot. However, a planter is a sanguine creature, and if he has -a bad season, his cry is 'next year.'" - -"Now Daddy, we won't have any more coffee till _after_ dinner," -announced Nancy authoritatively. "Captain Mayne has not been -introduced to the best dogs. This"--pushing forward a large white bull -terrier,--"is Sam. Uncle Sam, my property, and shadow." - -"I say, what a splendid fellow!" exclaimed Mayne. "Come along and talk -to me, Uncle. I love dogs--have you had him long?" - -"Ever since he was born. Bessie, his mother, was brought from England -as a puppy. She looked after me when I was small, and was so clever and -wise. I am sorry to say she died before I came home,--but her son has -adopted me." - -"Well, Bessie lived to a ripe old age," said Travers; "she must have -been thirteen--an extraordinarily intelligent, almost human creature. -When the poor old lady felt that her end was approaching, she went -round every one of her haunts to bid them farewell--down to 'The -Corner,' up to 'Clouds Rest,' and even to the nearer sholahs and beats. -Day after day she was to be seen hurrying along all by herself--a -strange journey----" - -"You have not talked to Togo yet," interposed Nancy, the irrepressible. -"Father belongs to him, and sleeps in his room. Come here, and show -yourself, my Togo! He is a shy, and eccentric person--nearly always -carries a stone in his mouth--a trick inherited from his retriever -ancestors." - -The animal in question was a yellow and white, curly-haired, -long-legged spaniel, with a jaunty tail carried high over his back, and -a pair of beseeching dark eyes. - -"What do you think of him?" - -After a moment's hesitation Mayne replied: - -"Well, I've no doubt Togo is a good sort--he reminds me of a variety of -dogs I've seen!" - -"Variety--you mean he is a mongrel?" - -"I'd rather not commit myself. Perhaps he is a particular hill breed?" - -"No, but one of the best of our pack," said his owner, "and if he seems -all leg, he is really all heart. Come here, Togo,--'handsome is, that -handsome does,' eh Togo?" - -And Togo went over and laid his head on his master's knee, and turned a -deeply reproachful gaze upon the stranger. - -"I'm going down to the factory, if you'd care to come," said Travers. -"I'll show you the lie of the land, and Nancy can concentrate on her -tea-party." - -Mayne accepted with alacrity, and in a few minutes, the two men, -followed by the two dogs, were to be seen descending the hill. - -"I knew a fellow of your name long ago," announced Travers; "I was one -of the juniors, when he was in the sixth form at Harrow; a remarkably -good-looking chap, Derek Mayne. We small fry worshipped him--he was -Captain of the Eleven." - -"It must have been my father; he was at Harrow, and his name was Derek -Mayne--so is mine." - -"Then in that case," said Travers, halting for a moment, and -confronting his companion, "I am delighted to meet his son; although -I lost sight of him for ages and ages, I remember your father just as -well as if we had met but yesterday; such an active, cheery sort of -chap, with a wonderful influence, and personality. I know he went into -the Army, and died young." - -"Yes, twenty-five years ago out here--cholera. I don't remember him at -all--I wish I could." - -"Once he came and spent a few days at Lambourne, my father's place, and -I felt tremendously flattered, and proud. Everyone was taken with him, -and such a cricketer! Those were the pleasant days before our grand -smash. Are you an only child?" - -"I am." - -"What hard lines for your mother to have six thousand miles between you -and her! _I_ know what that means." - -Mayne made no reply. He had good reason to believe, that distance was -of no account, and his absence, more or less of a welcome relief. - -"Yes, I know exactly how she feels," repeated good, simple-minded -Travers; "when my little girl went away from me to England,--the whole -world seemed changed, and dark." - -His love of Nancy was the keynote of the man. - -"Well, here is what we call a factory--not much like your idea of one, -I'll swear,--and a bit of an eyesore into the bargain." - -The factory was an ugly, solid brick building, with a flat zinc roof, -and vast verandahs; in and out of which, the laden coolies swarmed -like ants in an ant-heap. All seemed working at the highest pitch, and -everything pointed to a big crop; here Travers was the acute, energetic -and authoritative Manager; eyes and ears, hung upon his words, which -happened to be in fluent Canarese. - -At the appointed hour, Mayne,--whose kit had arrived,--presented -himself in the drawing-room at Fairplains; looking very business-like, -in his well-cut white flannels, and tennis shoes. Here host and hostess -were already awaiting their guests. - -The apartment was gloomy and old-fashioned--in spite of Miss Nancy's -obvious attempts to work a change, with gay cushions, white curtains, -and a wealth of flowers; these items entirely failed to overpower the -depressing effect of a double suite of Black Bombay furniture--sofas, -armchairs and tables; all heavily carved, and upholstered in shabby -purple damask,--the original Fairplains furniture, brought from Bombay -at vast expense, fifty years previously. - -The walls were hung with a weird grey paper, covered with a pattern -that recalled urns, and weeping willows; the ceiling was crossed by -great beams, and the yellow keys of an aged piano, seemed to grin -defiance at every innovation! Mrs. Travers and her daughter had been -in turn defeated by the overhanging beams, and funereal furniture, and -so the apartment of the early sixties, remained more or less deserted. -Nancy generally received her friends in the verandah, or the cheerful, -shabby "Den," common to her parent, and herself. - -"Is not this room hideous?" she said, appealing to Mayne. "No one likes -it. I think it's because when people die,--they are laid out here." - -"Nancy!" protested her father, "you don't know what you are talking -about! The fact is," turning to Mayne, "this room was once the glory -of the old lady who first lived at Fairplains, and there was a sort of -understanding that it was not to be transformed,--so here it is, as you -see! We only use it on state occasions." - -"Once in a blue moon," added Nancy. "The servants say it's haunted, -and I believe the old lady comes here still. If any article happens -to be moved, it's put back in its place, the same night--it really -_is_; flowers die in a few hours, and I always feel as if this was a -brooding, creepy sort of place--I don't like to be here alone after -dark--I feel a sense of something terrifying in that far corner--! Dad, -shall I take Captain Mayne down and show him the tennis ground? We are -proud of _that_." - -"All right, Nan, I'll do figurehead, and receive the company,--and pass -them on to you. They will be here at any moment." - -The four tennis courts had been, so to speak, scooped out of the hill, -and lay open on one side to a sheer descent, enclosed with stout wire -netting. A flight of steps connected the ground with the broad terrace -in front of the bungalow. - -"It's A1," remarked Mayne, "kunkur courts, I declare!" - -"My mother had it made in the days when Daddy was rich," explained the -girl, "but for years and years it was forgotten,--and overgrown with -grass and brambles." - -"And you restored it?" - -"No indeed, Mr. Fletcher resurrected the poor old tennis ground--wasn't -it good of him?" - -"He plays himself, of course?" - -"Oh no, he is quite old--much older than father. We have lived with -him, since I came out." - -"Were you long at home?" - -"Eleven endless years. Daddy came over four times to see me; only for -that, I believe I'd have died. Here are the Hicks!"--pointing to a -party who were riding up the road in Indian file. "The stout lady on -the white pony is Mrs. Hicks, or ''Icks'--she drops her aitches all -over the place; once someone sent her a sheet of paper covered with -them,--and she took it as a capital joke." - -"Why not?" said Mayne. "After all, why make a fetish of _one_ letter?" - -"Yes, and some people who cling to their aitches, work the poor letter -'I' to death." - -"That's rather sharp, and very true too, Miss Nancy." - -"I believe I am sharp in seeing some things. Mrs. Hicks is blind as a -bat, but immensely good-natured,--and so kind to animals." - -"Do you call her kind to that unfortunate pony? She must weigh fourteen -stone if she weighs an ounce!" - -"Oh, he's a 'Shan,' and well up to weight. Anyhow, she is active--wait -till you see her skipping about the tennis courts! Those two girls are -her daughters, Fanny and Jessie--they keep her in great order." - -"Do they indeed--but why?" - -"Because of her love for bright colours, her giggling, and loud laugh, -and the funny things she _will_ say--before they can stop her!" - -At this moment, the lady in question loomed large upon the top of the -steps, and Nancy ran to meet her. A ruddy, dark-eyed matron, with a -rollicking expression,--wearing a stiff white skirt, comfortable canvas -shoes, and a flowing green sash. - -"Well, Nance!" she called out, "'ow are you? This your -friend?"--indicating Mayne with a nod. - -"Yes; Captain Mayne--Mrs. Hicks." - -Mayne bowed, with slightly exaggerated deference. - -Mrs. Hicks nodded approvingly, and said: - -"These are my two girls, Miss Fanny and Jessie--Captain Mayne," and -she waved her bat towards two trim, lady-like young women. "They -are first-class tennis players," she continued, "and you can't go -wrong,--whichever you choose." - -Mayne had not intended to make a selection, but the matter was taken -out of his hands by Nancy. - -"I'm playing with father; and Mrs. Hicks, I know you like to play with -Andy Meach. Captain Mayne, you had better secure Jessie," and she gave -him a little push. - -Thus committed to a decisive move, he asked if Miss Jessie would honour -him? - -Her blushing acceptance was rudely cut short by her parent, who said: - -"It's all very fine for you to make up sets, my good Nancy! but you -know as well as I do, that as soon as our commander-in-chief arrives, -she will upset the whole of our little bag of tricks, and make us -play with whoever _she_ chooses--and talk of an angel!"--lifting her -eyes--"here comes the Honourable Mrs. Ffinch." - - - - - CHAPTER V - - "FINCHIE" - - -The Honourable Mrs. Ffinch was a woman of forty; thin, dark, rather -sallow, and not specially noticeable, until she spoke--then her face -became transformed; the half-closed, greenish-grey eyes, lit up; the -ugly wide mouth revealed beautiful teeth, and an enchanting smile. -"Finchie" as her intimates called her, had been endowed with an -attractive voice, inexhaustible vitality, and a big brain. - -Even her enemies--and these were not a few--admitted her cleverness, -and powers of fascination; whilst her friends deplored the lamentable -fact that poor "Finchie's" great talents, had no suitable outlet within -the circumscribed orbit of a planter's wife. She was gifted with the -capabilities of a brilliant hostess, and could have held a _salon_, or -seriously engaged in political and diplomatic affairs; having the gift -of a strategic silence, wonderful success in extracting confidences, -and the capacity for holding strings;--unfortunately her talents -transcended her opportunities! - -As the eldest girl of a well-born, but impecunious family, she had, -so to speak, "taken the bush out of the gap," for her five sisters, -sacrificed her Romance, and married Hector Ffinch; a prosperous -tea-planter, whose stolid reserved character, found an irresistible -attraction in vivacious Julia Lamerton,--who had the power of imposing -her personality on all her surroundings. - -After a short and undemonstrative courtship, a quiet wedding and -handsome settlements, he carried off his bride to the East. India -fell far beneath the lady's expectations; a vivid imagination had -misled her; at "Clouds Rest" she found no gay, amusing cantonment, or -gorgeous, and amazing entourage--merely a vast tea estate, a large, -half-empty bungalow, and a tribe of brown retainers,--last, not least, -a dull enough husband! Hector was as heavy and immovable as a block of -granite; she, as mobile and restless, as a bit of quicksilver. - -For a time, she secretly wept, and bitterly bewailed her fate. It was -all so utterly different to what she had expected! Alas, for her plan -of inviting her sisters one by one, and marrying them off with success -and _éclat_! "Clouds Rest" was as hopeless (from a matrimonial point of -view) as any dead-and-alive rural village. - -However, she had one solid consolation--money; also, the still -undimmed halo of "the bride"; so she exercised her gifts of oratory -and persuasion, and pleaded most eloquently for the company of guests, -for a motor, for quantities of new furniture, and a trip home,--at -least once in three years. To all these requests, Hector lent a -favourable ear; even his lethargic mind realized what the change -of surroundings meant to a member of a large and talkative family, -and any amount of lively society. The couple had now been married -twelve years; and in spite of various visits to England, and many gay -excursions to the plains, Julia Ffinch was beginning to weary of this -comfortable exile; she could never be happy without a certain amount of -excitement--excitement was as necessary to her well-being, as petrol to -an engine. - -She did a little racing (under the rose)--the telegraph peon's red -turban looming along through the tea bushes, gave her appropriate -thrills; she played Bridge for rather high stakes; but what afforded -her the keenest enjoyment, was intruding into other people's lives; -pulling strings, directing their affairs, and making her puppets dance -right merrily! This, she considered to be a legitimate and delightful -entertainment, and by dint of clever manipulation, contrived to make -her immediate neighbours perform with praiseworthy success! - -It was thanks to _her_ offices, that a planter's wife at Tirraputty -had left her home in a cloud of mystery; she had stage-managed the -engagement between Blanche Meach, and a civilian; a notable match,--but -then Blanche was very pretty. On the other hand, to her, was attributed -the rupture of the affair between Fanny Hicks, and a young fellow in -the Woods and Forests, and the dire disgrace of a German Missionary. -Many and various matters in which Mrs. Ffinch had taken a part, -afforded scope for interviews, letters, stormy scenes (at which she -assisted), cables, telegrams, sudden entrances and exits. All of these, -the clever operator of the puppet-play, most heartily enjoyed. - -Mrs. Ffinch descended the steps with leisurely precision,--offering -as she did so, an interesting display of brown silk stockings, and -neat brown shoes.--She was immediately followed by her grey-haired, -square-headed, and somewhat paunchy lord; and also a guest; a slim, -well-groomed gentleman, with closely set black eyes, and a slightly -vulpine nose. Some people thought Captain Calvert handsome; to others, -he unpleasantly recalled a well-bred greyhound with an uncertain temper. - -"Well, Nancy darling," Mrs. Ffinch began in her clear high voice, "so -here we are at last! We had a smash--ran into a bullock bandy at a -corner--the bandy, like the 'Coo,' got the worst of it!" - -Her glance travelled to Mayne, and as her eyes rested on him, they -brightened,--after the manner of a hunter who sees game afoot! - -A tall, well set-up young fellow, with clear-cut features, candid dark -eyes, and an air of distinction--_quite_ a find! - -"This is Captain Mayne," explained the hostess, "Captain Mayne--Mrs. -Ffinch. He only arrived last evening," she added. - -"Oh, really!" murmured the lady; then turning to address him, "I did -not hear you were expected, and we always know our neighbours' affairs, -as soon as they do themselves." - -"_Sooner_," growled Dawson, who had joined the group, in a hideous -green and yellow blazer. - -"As a matter of fact," said Mayne, "I was not expected--but came." - -"As an agreeable surprise, I am sure!" interrupted Mrs. Ffinch, with -one of her radiant smiles. "I must hear all about it later. Nancy, if -we are to finish before dark, there's not a second to lose. Do let us -begin? I shall choose Captain Mayne, and you Nancy, had better take on -Captain Calvert." - -"Oh, but I'm booked to play with father!" she protested. - -"Nonsense, child! how ridiculous you are! You and he can play all day -to-morrow--_now_ you must entertain your guests." - -It happened precisely as predicted by Mrs. Hicks,--who made a valiant -but useless attempt to retain the young man of her choice,--the -Commander-in-chief took all arrangements upon herself. Mayne was -secretly amused to see the tall thin figure in a panama hat, the centre -of an eager and well-disciplined crowd--who presently scattered--each -to their allotted post. - -After winning a hardly contested set, Mrs. Ffinch retired to a seat, -and called upon her partner to supply her with refreshments. At a -long table in their vicinity, two white-clad servants dispensed iced -drinks, and a tempting variety of cakes, and sandwiches. As Mrs. Ffinch -sipped claret cup, she asked for details respecting Mayne's visit, and -remarked as he concluded: - -"So you fell from the skies into a crowd of strangers! Well, at any -rate Laurence Travers can get you fine sport. You have come to the -right shop for that!" - -"Yes, but I am rather ashamed to take up his time; he is most awfully -busy just now." - -"That's true; he works like a horse for another man, and yet he would -not put out a finger to save the estate, when it was his own. I suppose -you have heard the tale?" - -"Well--Dawson did say something about trouble, and absence----" - -"Yes, the death of his wife broke Laurence Travers' heart, and the loss -of the child nearly sent him off his head." - -"He seems fairly sane now," remarked her listener. - -"Yes, case of locking the stable door when the steed--or the estate--is -gone. Laurence is much too emotional for a man; it was lucky for him -that Fairplains was bought by Tom Fletcher, who was sent out here for -his health. He is rich, entirely independent of coffee; such a good old -fellow, who always looks kindly on the under dog!" - -"And Travers was very much under?" - -"In the depths," was the emphatic reply; "he was dragged into unknown -liabilities by Doria, his manager--an absconding thief. Thanks to -Tom Fletcher, he has been set on his legs again; but he only has his -monthly screw--should anything happen to Laurence, that girl will be -destitute." - -"Well, we will hope for the best," said Mayne cheerfully. "Travers -looks as active as if he were five and twenty--more than a match for -young Byng," nodding towards the players. "I hope he may live long, and -be always as happy as he is now!" - -"Happy! that is just the word. Did you _ever_ behold anything like -the absolute adoration that exists between father and daughter? She -is a dear child, but too elemental to be sophisticated, in spite of -her eleven years at home. You see her _heart_ was always out here. She -is quite a unique flapper, and plays tennis like a boy. What a strong -service--do look!" - -Mayne looked as desired, and saw the light figure skimming about the -court, and noted the remarkable contrast between her brown face and -arms, and snow white linen frock; also the uncovered masses of rough -reddish hair that now and then caught a gleam of gold. - -"No beauty, poor darling, is she?" murmured Mrs. Ffinch. - -"If she would only give her complexion a chance!" - -"She won't. She is making up now for years of strict hat and glove -wearing; and doesn't bother about her personal appearance; all she -really cares for are--her father, and Sam the bull terrier. She is -also rather devoted to _me_." A pause. "Well, Captain Mayne," and she -laughed, "I'm waiting for you to say, 'I'm not surprised at _that_!'" - -He coloured a little, laughed too, and said: - -"Somehow I don't fancy such a compliment would go down up here." - -"You are right! We are a simple, and primitive community. If you will -dispose of my glass, I'll make you out a social A B C." - -"All right," he agreed, as he resumed his seat. - -"There is my husband, aged fifty-five, a hard-working enthusiast, who -lives for coffee, and sales; sales, and coffee. Ted Dawson too--though -he is a bit of a boor--is also an enthusiast, and will also be rich by -the time he is fifty--unless he finds gold." - -"Gold," repeated Mayne. "What--up here!" - -"No, down nearer the plains--some believe there are great reefs and old -workings swallowed up in the jungle. Learned people say that Herodotus -wrote of how the Indians paid Darius tribute in gold; also that Malabar -is _Ophir_! You know we are not far from there." - -"I've just come up from the coast,--and there's no sign of gold--that I -am prepared to swear." - -"Dr. Hicks believes in the reefs, and he is a very shrewd little man. -There you see the family. Mrs. Hicks has money; they say she was a -publican's widow; he doctors us all gratis, has a son in a Bank in -Madras, and the two girls, Fanny and Jessie. Jessie was extremely -pretty at sixteen; then suddenly her nose began to grow! We were -afraid it would never stop, but become a real proboscis--only for this -feature, Jessie is a beauty. She would look lovely in a Yashmak--her -eyes are so fine. Their mother is such an anxiety to those girls." - -"It's usually the other way on!" - -"Or rather it _was_--domestic affairs are upside down in these days. -The girls cannot control their parent's free and easy manners, her -love for bright colours, and dancing, and a good coarse story--a -_man's_ story! Do look at her now, leaping up and down like a great -india-rubber ball! Isn't it depressing to watch such misdirected -energy?" - -After a moment's pause, she resumed: "There are two or three of the -Meaches here. Their old tyrant usually keeps them at home, toiling for -him, that he may gobble up all manner of delicacies, and live on the -fat of this land! I'm speaking of Major Meach, who owns a large family, -a small estate, and is our champion vampire; bleeds his descendants -white, and terrorizes over them all, from his chair in the verandah--he -always makes me think of a sick tiger." - -"Your neighbours don't seem to be very attractive," remarked Mayne -dryly. - -"I am beginning with the least interesting--keeping some as a _bonne -bouche_. Nancy, is what you see; refreshingly young, plastic, and -impulsive. The Meach sisters are remarkably pretty; their poor mother -is a dear martyred saint. The Pollards--those fair-haired boys and -the pink girl--are nice young people, but unfortunately a good way -off. Mrs. Pollard has a tongue! _she_ cannot be too far! Fairplains -is central and here we all meet. India provides its own amusements. -How Captain Calvert is enjoying himself with Nancy! Her saucy -answers delight him; he has a ridiculous fancy for very young girls, -and--_parle du diable_--here he comes!" - -"Hullo, Mayne," he said, mopping his face as he lounged up, "I believe -we have met before--on board ship, eh?" - -"Yes, the _Medina_, coming out last September." - -"Fancy our forgathering on the hill top like this! Making any stay?" - -"A few weeks--I've come for a shoot." - -"Lucky chap! Well, I hope you'll have good sport. Can I get you -anything, dear lady?" turning to Mrs. Ffinch with anxious solicitude. - -"Yes, a match; I'm simply dying for a smoke." - -As he bent over her, Mayne rose and relinquished his chair to Mrs. -Hicks, who painfully out of breath, was clamouring for "a real big -tumbler of hiced 'Ock cup." - -The refreshment table was now besieged by a noisy intimate and animated -crowd, making fixtures for tennis, picnics, or shoots; in short all -manner of social meetings and amenities, and into the midst of them, -Mrs. Ffinch glided, in order to contribute her veto, arguments, -commands, or consent. - -Presently the sudden Indian dusk began to fall, enshrouding the view; -a cold blue haze was creeping nearer and nearer, and the congenial -company prepared to disperse. - -A great "Napier" car belonging to "Clouds Rest" lingered after the -Hicks, Meaches, and Pollards had ridden away, and when the lamps were -lighted, Mrs. Ffinch said: - -"Captain Mayne, I do hope we shall often see you; when Laurence Travers -is busy, come up to us. Nancy child, good-bye," embracing her with -motherly affection; "I intend to steal your new friend--whenever he is -bored here, send him to me," and with these words still trembling in -the air, the great motor slid silently away. - -"That was not very complimentary to _you_, was it?" said Mayne, turning -to Nancy. - -"Oh, she didn't intend it in that way," protested the girl. "She says -a great deal she does not mean--so do I!" and she laughed. "There are -no end of attractions at 'Clouds Rest'; a billiard table, an electric -piano, the motor, and a 'mug' cook, and here we have so little to -offer. No indeed--I'm _not_ fishing! but when father has an extra heavy -day, and you are idle, I do hope you will not worry about _us_--but -just take Finchie at her word, and ride over to 'Clouds Rest.'" - - - - - CHAPTER VI - - THE PANTHER'S FIRST VICTIM - - -The tennis party had dissolved, dinner was an agreeable memory, and -Mayne with his new friends, sat out in the broad verandah, and gazed at -a moon,--which, like a pale golden disc, hung midway in the dark blue -sky. - -The two men were smoking, Sam was circling uneasily round his unheeding -mistress, when she suddenly said: - -"Do tell me, Captain Mayne, what you think of Mrs. Ffinch--isn't she -charming?" - -"She seems to be awfully clever, and amusing, and full of go." - -"Yes," said Travers, "she manages the whole community with the very -best intentions. I can't help feeling a little sorry for her." - -"Sorry, father!" exclaimed Nancy, "why _sorry_?" - -"Well, you see, she has no children, no positive home interests; her -wonderful talents and exertions, are squandered among strangers. Ffinch -has made a fortune--some say _two_--and yet he won't stir. He is rooted -in coffee; so poor woman, is she! If he only would take her to London, -there backed up by his long purse, she would be in her natural element; -an admirable organizer of important functions, bazaars, charity balls, -and political receptions; dealing with affairs on a grand scale, -instead of running our tuppenny-halfpenny concerns." - -"But these, no doubt with success?" said Mayne. - -"Well, yes, on the whole--there have been one or two lapses, but a -sacrificial goat was always on the spot!" - -"Father!" broke in Nancy, "how can you be so horrid? You are -talking like an odious cynic. Finchie has done no end of wonderful -things--patching up all the quarrels, and getting people into good -posts. She is always right--if ever she wants a scapegoat--here am _I_!" - -"Noble child!" Travers ejaculated, and he surveyed his daughter with -laughing eyes. - -"Captain Mayne," she resumed, "don't you think Captain Calvert good -looking?" - -"Um--no," then after a doubtful pause, "more the other thing,--since -you ask me." - -"Bad looking, I suppose you mean. How funny!" - -"I understand," said Travers, "that Mephistophelian cast--it does -appeal to women and children." - -"You have got into the wrong side of your chair, Daddy. What dreadful -things you are saying--talking of Finchie's scapegoats, and seeing a -likeness to the old gentleman, in Captain Calvert." - -"I must confess I am rather surprised to find him in this part of the -world," said Mayne, "he is not a sportsman--but a Society man, who -likes big functions, the theatre, and cards." - -"Oh, it's pretty warm down below just now," replied Travers, "and the -Ffinches do their guests uncommonly well. Calvert is a pleasant fellow, -and comes over here sometimes for a game of tennis; he and Nancy are -pals. Well," rising as he spoke, "to-morrow I must be up and about at -five o'clock--so that you and I can shoot in the early afternoon. Nancy -child, it is time for bed, and just look how Sam is yawning!" - -"Why, Daddy, it's only half-past ten," she protested, but all the same -she rose, and having bid Mayne good-night, and folded her father in an -overpowering embrace, went away to her own room, attended by her sleepy -shadow. - - * * * * * - -Time at Fairplains flew with what seemed to Mayne, amazing speed; the -shooting surpassed his most sanguine expectations; his excursions to -the low country had resulted in two fine tigers, and several pairs -of noble horns. When Travers was unable to accompany him, Ted Dawson -and Andy Meach had come to the front, and shown the stranger capital -sport. Mayne found this simple life delightful; a novel perspective and -atmosphere; instead of familiar barrack bugles, here he was awoke by -the clanging of a gong, summoning the coolies to their labours. - -With Mayne it was a case of a happy surrender to his environment; -the delicious life-giving air, good wholesome food, and congenial -society, all contributed to this condition. He enjoyed listening to -playful family arguments and squabbles,--when weary, after a long day's -tramp, he lounged at delicious ease, in a comfortable, if shabby old -chair; there was generally something piquante and provoking in Nancy's -conversation. He and she were now on the most friendly footing; he had -given her elaborate instructions in the important art of making a tie; -she mended his socks, replaced lost buttons, and had even cut his hair! -Also he called her Nancy, and was a little disposed to lecture, and -tease her, in big elder brother fashion. - -Mayne, however, discovered that there were two distinct Nancies; one -of the morning, the other of the afternoon. The earlier young lady was -a serious person, with the heavy responsibility of a household upon -her shoulders. From chotah hazri till mid-day, she was occupied, first -with the cook--a bearded retainer, who had carried her in his arms. -The two conferred with the deepest solemnity over menus, the bazaar -accounts, and the contents of the store-rooms. Then she visited the -poultry yard, and the garden, superintended and helped to fill and trim -the lamps, and finally sat down to make or mend. Nancy was an expert -with her needle, and frequently extended a kindly hand towards the rags -and tatters of "The Corner"; altogether a grave, silent, industrious -mistress of Fairplains. - -The afternoon Nancy was her opposite; neither grave, nor silent, but -an exuberantly irresponsible chattering chit, who broke into song as -she went about, in a sweet rather childish voice, waltzed her reluctant -parent up and down the verandah, played tennis, rode with boyish pluck -and abandon, sat with dangling legs on the ends of tables, talked -ridiculous nonsense to the dogs and ponies, and was rarely seen to open -a book, or to write a letter. - -Mayne, who had no sisters, or girl cousins, mentally adopted Nancy as -something of both; but as Miss Travers, and a young lady, it never -occurred to him to take her seriously. - -The Fairplains guest had been hospitably entertained by all the -neighbours; tennis parties at the Hicks', tiffin at "The Corner," and -dinner at Clouds Rest--where he was in particular request,--a request -that savoured of a command--for Mrs. Ffinch had discovered that she -knew his people at home--and her invitations were both frequent, -and imperious. Travers was far too busy to dine abroad, Nancy never -deserted her parent, and on several occasions Mayne went alone to -Clouds Rest to dine and sleep. This abode was more on the lines of an -English country house; here were curtains, carpets, elegant modern -furniture, and appointments; nothing shabby or ramshackle, in or about -the premises, which was staffed with first-rate native servants, had a -luxurious "go as you please" atmosphere, and kept late hours. Champagne -and caviare, and other important importations were offered at dinner; -after the best Havanas came Auction Bridge at high points. - -Captain Calvert still lingered in these "Capuan" quarters. One morning, -he and Mayne awaited their hostess in the verandah, where breakfast was -served; she was an hour late, and Captain Calvert's sharp appetite had -undoubtedly affected his temper. After one or two nasty speeches about -"damned lazy women," and "rotten arrangements," his remarks became more -personal, and he twitted his companion with his mad craze for shikar. - -"Upon my soul, I believe you'd go anywhere, even among half-castes and -natives, if they were to promise you an extra good bag." - -"Perhaps I would--in fact, I'm sure I would," admitted Mayne. "By the -way, apropos of natives and shooting--what about _your_ shoot up North? -I heard you talking to a Nawab coming out on the _Medina_, and you put -in pretty strongly for an invite." - -"Yes--did I?" drawled Calvert, lifting his thin black eyebrows, "I -forget--I believe. I--er--wanted to have a look at the country." - -"So it did not come off, eh?" - -"No, as well as I remember, there was some hitch about dates. Talking -of dates," he went on, with a significant glance, "are you putting in -_all_ your leave at Fairplains?" - -"I hope so," was the bold rejoinder, "I shall be jolly sorry when it -comes to my last week!" - -"Ah! Well, yes, the little red-haired girl is not half bad fun,--brown -as a coolie, but what delicious feet, and ankles! If she were to sit -reversed, with her feet above the table--I see," catching Mayne's -furious glance. "Well then, I'll give you another picture. Some day, -Miss Nancy will be a handsome woman,--though she's more of a boy, and a -tomboy now. She has odd flashes--that set one wondering, and I bet you, -will give her husband a lot of surprises!" - -"That'll do!--don't let us discuss her any further!" exclaimed Mayne -impatiently. - -"Hullo!" exclaimed Calvert with a loud laugh, "I apologize! Upon my -soul I'd no idea----" - -"There _is_ no idea," interrupted Mayne. "Miss Travers and I are very -good friends. She is one of the straightest and the best. So natural -and simple." - -"How nice for you!" - -"I only wish she was my sister," persisted her champion. - -"By Jove,--do you?" drawled Calvert. "Well, _I_ don't!" and he expelled -a cloud of smoke from his thin, well-cut nostrils. "I'm, as you -see,--smoking like the Indians,--to appease hunger. Presently I shall -take a reef in my belt. I say," after a pause, "look at old Ffinch -riding along the hillside. _He_ breakfasted hours ago! I can't imagine -why he does not chuck all this? Everyone knows he is quite too grossly -prosperous--and she, with her talents, and her energy, is thrown away -out here." - -"Yes," agreed Mayne, "she's awfully clever, and go-ahead." - -"A lot of what Americans call, 'Get up and go!' about her," said -Calvert. "Wonderful driving force,--and what a woman to talk! She'd -make a fine figure of a Sunday in Hyde Park; or taking a hand in some -big revolution. Yes"--slowly closing his eyes--"I can _see_ her in the -tumbril," he concluded, with morose vindictiveness. - -"I say, what amazing pictures you have in your mind's eye," said -Mayne--who was not imaginative, "a cinematograph isn't in it!" - -"Oh, here she comes at last!" said Calvert, tossing away his cheroot, -and rising, he added with his most courtly air, "Welcome, welcome, dear -lady--as the sun upon a darkened world." - -Immediately after breakfast, Mayne ordered the cob, and rode away in -spite of Mrs. Ffinch's urgent appeals for him to remain, and "spend -a nice long day." He felt that at present, he could not endure any -more of Calvert's society. What a poisonous tongue,--what a shameless -climber; and there was such calculation and method in his schemes. -He, by his own confession, made a point of cultivating the right -people--chiefly through their womenkind--and cherished well-founded -hopes of a comfortable, and prominent post on someone's staff. - -He insinuated that he (Mayne) was sponging on the Travers', he read -the accusation in the fellow's eyes--(Calvert himself was just the -sort to cheat at croquet, and sponge on old ladies).--With regard to -his host, he felt blameless. Travers treated him as the son of his old -school-fellow; he and Nancy made him one of themselves, and allowed -him to share in their interests, jokes, and even secrets. _He_ knew -all about the new habit, that was on its way from England for Nancy's -birthday. Here his reflections were put an end to by the sight to -Fairplains plantation, the motley pack, and Nancy herself. - -That same night after the household had retired, and the premises -were supposed to be wrapped in sleep (though some of the servants -were gambling in their go-downs) Mayne was aroused by a wild piercing -scream. He jumped out of bed, and as he hurried on some clothes, saw -a bare-footed white figure, lamp in hand, flash down the verandah -shrieking: - -"Sam! Sam! A panther has taken him! Daddy--Daddy--hurry!" - -Mayne snatched his gun, and rushed out; the light was very faint, but -as he ran up the path, he was aware of a choking noise, and a something -large bounding along not far ahead. He followed the sound, in among the -rocks and bushes, and then suddenly lost it. By this time, the whole -place was swarming with men armed with sticks and lanterns, Nancy in a -blue garment, and her father half dressed, heading an excited crowd. -Alas! the tragic truth had to be faced--Sam was _gone_! taken from the -door of his mistress's room, and carried off in his sleep, by one of -those treacherous devils. - -With bobbing lanterns, crashing sticks, and loud harsh shouts, the -whole of the rocks were most thoroughly beaten, but without result; -of dog or panther there was not a trace. After an hour's exhaustive -search, Mayne returned to the bungalow--his lamp had gone out. Here -in the verandah he distinguished a sobbing figure; Nancy, alone and in -uncontrollable grief. Between her sobs she moaned: - -"Oh, my poor darling Sam! Oh, the cruelty--oh, Daddy, what shall I -do--what shall I do?" and she suddenly flung herself upon Mayne, and -sobbed out in the tone of a child asking for consolation, "Daddy, -Daddy, what _shall_ I do?" - -They were the same height, and in the dark, she had mistaken him -for her father,--who was still pursuing a hopeless search among the -rocks,--but the situation was not the less embarrassing,--especially as -the girl clung to her supposed parent, with both arms clasped tightly -round his neck, and her face buried in his coat. Suddenly she realized -her mistake, and with a violent jerk, drew herself away. - -"Why, you're not Daddy!" she gasped out, breathlessly, "I know by the -feel of your coat. It's Captain Mayne--I've been--hugging." - -"It's all right, Nancy," taking her hands in his. "Poor little girl! -I'm just as sorry for you, as ever I can be, and I'll never rest, till -I bring you in the skin of the brute that has killed Sam. Here is your -father now," and Mayne tactfully withdrew, and abandoned the pair to -their grief,--Nancy's the wildest, and most poignant, that he had ever -witnessed. - -The following day, Francis the butler, mysteriously imparted to Mayne -the news, that Sam's collar, and one paw had been found. - -"But say not one word to the Missy. We bury in dogs' graveyard; the -beast is a big female with young cubs, therefore is she overbold. That -dog Sam," and his black eyes looked moist, "I also loved him, too much." - - - - - CHAPTER VII - - EIGHTEEN ON TUESDAY - - -For two days after the loss of Sam, Nancy remained inconsolable; she -could neither eat nor rest, her face looked small, her tragic eyes -sunken and dim; also she wept for hours,--utterly indifferent to -consolation, or chocolates. "The Corner" after the day's work, ascended -to sympathize, Mrs. Ffinch descended with a similar kind intention, and -expressed shocked concern; but her kissing, endearments, and honeyed -words, were a waste of time and breath. - -"I shall never get over it, Finchie, never!" moaned the girl, "and I -won't rest till the panther has been killed, and _skinned_. Daddy has -offered a reward of thirty rupees,--but so far it is no use." - -"Take her out riding--_make_ her go," commanded Mrs. Ffinch, "she can't -sit here all day nursing her grief. Try what you can do, Captain Mayne, -take her up to the Meaches, Nellie has returned home, and Major Meach -always amuses Nancy." - -"I don't think anything would amuse her now," he answered. - -"Look at Togo," burst out Nancy, "_he_ knows. All yesterday he lay with -his face to the wall--here in the verandah--and he has not touched a -morsel since it happened. Oh, my poor Sam!" The name was almost a cry. - -"If you and Togo starve yourselves, my dear, what good will that do -poor Sam?" inquired the practical visitor, "I'm sure he would not like -you to die too. You really must cheer up, for your father's sake. I am -awfully sorry myself; as the son of our dear old Dan, Sam was a sort of -nephew. We will all give him a great funeral----" - -She stopped abruptly as it flashed into her mind that there were no -remains. Ultimately her powers of persuasion, proved effectual, and -Nancy reluctantly agreed to give her pony some exercise, and not to -indulge her emotions in such frantic ungovernable native fashion. -Travers was as usual busy among his coolies, and Mayne and Nancy set -off alone, and rode over to the Meaches, precisely as Mrs. Ffinch had -ordained. - -It was a cheerful breezy trip; sometimes the road lay in hollows, -winding round a valley, and between blackberry bushes, wattles, ash -trees, and wild roses, recalling an English lane; or again, over grassy -uplands, with a delightful breeze, driving white clouds overhead. - -By and by, Nancy recovered her self-control, and her tongue,--a member -that was never long mislaid. - -The Meach family lived eight miles from Fairplains, on a poor worn out, -and out of the way estate; Major Meach, having spent all he possessed, -invested his wife's little fortune in this, so to speak "refuge," and -here she and her offspring slaved and struggled, in order to provide -their old man of the sea, with everything he demanded in the way of -attention, and comfort. - -Part of the estate was let to a native, part was worked by Andy, -whilst Mrs. Meach and her three pretty daughters kept cows and -poultry, and sold eggs and butter among their neighbours. Blanche, the -beauty,--thanks to Mrs. Ffinch,--was satisfactorily married; Tom, the -youngest son, slaved in an office, and sent all he could spare to his -harassed mother who struggled to keep house, and maintain a presentable -family, on one hundred rupees a month. - -The Misses Meach emerged into the verandah when they heard the glad -sound of voices, accompanied by the clatter of hoofs, and Gladys and -Nellie joyfully hailed Nancy, who instantly in a strangled voice, -claimed their sympathy for her irreparable loss. - -"The dear faithful fellow!--how dreadful!" said Nellie. "I remember one -time, you went home by the old road, he missed you, and came back here, -and lay all night by the chair you had been sitting on." - -"Bah! what's a dog!" snarled Major Meach, a preposterously fat man, who -now appeared, and with a curt salute to Mayne, sank with heavy violence -into a creaking wicker chair. "Lots to be had! We can give you half a -dozen--greedy, good-for-nothing brutes!" - -Mrs. Meach, a worn, thin woman, with remarkably red hands, and a still -pretty face, who had been ordering tea, now came forward to welcome -her guests. Poor lady! her life had been, and was, a tragedy. Once a -beauty, she was thought to have made a fine match when she married -Captain Meach of the Light Lancers,--a man with a nice fortune. The -nice fortune, he squandered on himself; and poor Amy Meach, after -knocking about the world from garrison town to cantonment, saving, -pinching, rearing a family, and keeping up appearances, was now the -drudge, and servant, of her selfish and unwieldy tyrant. - -Her hope, comfort, and joy, was in her children; possibly some day, she -may be in a position to sit down and be served by other people, to read -a novel, or even to take a morning in bed! - -Everything at Panora seemed cheap and faded,--except the fat helpless -old Major, and his three pretty girls. He insisted on keeping up "his -position," as he called it; the shabby, timid-looking servants, wore -in their turbans, the badge of a regiment that had been only too -thankful to get rid of their master! - -He, who was a notorious slacker, now posed as a former martinet, and -present authority, and his faithful family believed in the fable. The -truth was, that but for Mrs. Meach, who was popular, and for whom -everyone was sorry, he would not have been "let down," so to speak, -without a nasty jar. - -The Tyrant liked to fasten on Mayne,--who occasionally escorted Nancy, -when she came to see her friends,--and to question him sharply on Army -matters, and utter high boastings of "my old regiment--Cavalry--_I_ -never could stand being a mud-crusher!" and as he knew that Mayne was -an Infantry officer, this remark was, to say the least, tactless. - -When they all sat at tea, he talked with his mouth full, helped himself -to hot cakes--two at a time--bragged, snubbed his family, laid down -the law, and made rude personal remarks. With regard to his daughter -Nellie, he said: - -"We sent Nellie down to try her luck in Bangalore; but there was no -market, no buyers--and here she is, back on our hands like a bad penny." - -Poor Nellie blushed till there were tears in her eyes. - -"I'll give her to anyone with a pound of tea--ha! ha! ha!" - -"If you were _my_ father, and made such rude speeches," said Nancy -fiercely, "I'd be very glad to give _you_ away, with a whole -plantation!" - -"There you go, spitfire!" he exclaimed.--He rather liked Nancy, because -she boldly opposed him.--"You've been spoiled, my good girl; if your -father had given you some _sound_ thrashings, you would not be so -cocksey--and such a bad example to other young women." - -"I think," said Mayne, rising, "it is time for us to make a start," and -he eyed the old bully, with a menacing stare. - -"Oh, ho!" and he chuckled. "Nancy is used to me--aren't you, red poll? -_You_ don't mind!" - -"I'll overlook the outrage this time, but as an apology, I must have -Gladys and Nellie to spend the day on Monday." - -"Can't be done--no ponies!" - -"Then I'll borrow the Clouds Rest car." - -"Will you! You've cheek enough for anything! If you can get the car, -you shall have the girls, and the Missus thrown in--there's an offer -for you!" - -Mayne, who felt a touch of sincere pity for poor Mrs. Meach and her -browbeaten daughters, experienced a sense of profound relief when the -farewells were over, and he and Nancy rode away. - -"Look in again soon, young fellow!" shouted Major Meach. "Nancy, tell -your father to send me up a bag of his number one coffee--it can come -in the car." - -"I don't know about that bag of coffee," said Mayne; "but old Meach -won't see _me_ again." - -"Isn't he a horror?" - -"I'm awfully sorry for his daughters; when he told the fair one to -'shut up,' I felt inclined to shy a plate at him!" - -"And he is such an ungrateful old monster! Only for the way those girls -work, and go without things, there would be no cigars, no Europe hams, -tinned stores, or whisky and soda. He _must_ have everything he wants, -or he yells, and storms like a madman. I've told him one or two plain -truths about his selfishness." - -"Have you? I must say you are fairly plucky." - -"Nicky Byng admires Nellie, but it's no good; all the same, if I _do_ -get the car, I'll let him know." - -"Fancy trying your hand at match-making,--a child like _you_!" and -Mayne turned in his saddle, and surveyed his companion, with a broad -smile. - -"Of course, I know it's no use. Finchie throws buckets of cold water -on the affair; she hopes to marry Nellie off, the same as Blanche -Sandilands. Blanche has a splendid car, lives in a big house on the -Adyar, and entertains half Madras. All the same, I think Nellie likes -Nicky." - -"Then why mind Mrs. Ffinch, and her cold water?" - -"We all mind her; she is so far-sighted, and clever--all but Ned, he -thinks her too meddlesome, and anyway, she _did_ talk Jessie Hicks out -of accepting him." - -"Do you suppose, that Mrs. Ffinch could talk you out of accepting -anyone?" - -"How can you be so silly! Anyway, there will be no occasion, for I -don't intend to marry." - -"Bosh! Wait till you are older, and then we shall see what we shall -see." - -"I'm quite old enough to know my own mind." - -"Not you!" - -"Don't be rude. Do you know, that I shall be eighteen on Tuesday?" - -"I know that you are trying to pull my leg, miss! You are not an hour -over sixteen--if so much. I should put you down at fourteen if I were -asked." - -"Well, if you won't believe me, you can see the certificate of birth -and baptism.--I was born at Fairplains." - -"But, Nancy," suddenly pulling up his cob, "I've always understood you -were a mere child--if you really _are_ eighteen--I--I feel completely -_bouleversé_; in other words, shattered; for I've been treating you as -a little girl, and all the time, you are a young lady! I declare, I'm -so upset, I shall tumble off the cob!" - -"Don't tumble yet; stick on, and I'll explain. Daddy likes me to look -a mere child, and can't endure the idea of my growing up. So I always -wear simple frocks, and short skirts--it was only the other day, I put -my hair up." - -"Did you wear a pig-tail?" - -"Yes, of course I did--it was a beauty, too." - -"And I know I'd have pulled it! that's one temptation removed! Well, -let me here and now apologize for my many enormities. I'm most -frightfully sorry; I wish you were only sixteen." - -"You may go on just as if I were. They all do." - -"Thank you, Nancy. And so Mrs. Ffinch is law-maker, the local dictator, -and match-maker?" - -"Yes. She is immensely proud of the Meach affair; but not so proud -of Fred Pollard's match. She married him off to a girl who was most -unsuitable--so much so, that Fred fled to Ceylon, and the Pollards are -not very good friends with Finchie! She does not wish Ted to marry -Jessie Hicks; for then Nicky would have to move out of The Corner, and -he might take it into his head, to run away with Nellie--and she has -magnificent plans for her." - -"Wheels within wheels," exclaimed Mayne. "It strikes me all the same, -that these young people are not desperately in love; if they were, -they'd never take all this so tamely, or so to speak, lying down." - -"Well you see, they are all very busy one way or another, and have no -time. When they _do_ meet at tennis, Finchie mixes the sets, and sorts -them out, as you saw!" - -"Yes, I saw; but I must confess I did not notice the usual interesting -signs of mutual attachment." - -"No? What are the signs?" - -"I don't know much about it, but sitting in one another's pockets, -holding one another's hands, and obviously wishing us all at Jericho." - -"Yes. Haven't you been in love yourself? You _must_--you are getting -on!" - -"Getting on, you rude child! Why, I'm only seven and twenty. As to -being in love--no, never what you may call, seriously." - -"Seriously?" - -"That is to say unable to eat, or sleep--living solely to see _her_--or -if not her--the postman, who carries her priceless letters." - -"Ah, you jeer at love! Perhaps it may pay you out one day." - -"Perhaps! And what about you, Nancy? Has no smart young tennis champion -awakened your interest?" - -She burst into a peal of laughter--her first laugh for four whole days. - -"No, I've never been in love--or ever will; I haven't a tiny scrap to -spare from Daddy; and here he comes to meet us--with poor lonely Togo." - -"Well, Nance," he called out, "I've just fixed up a splendid treat for -your birthday." - -"What is it? Oh, tell me quickly--quickly!" - -"We are going down to Holikul for three days for a shoot. There is a -big native holiday that draws off our coolies, and I've invited the -Corner boys; you shall undertake the commissariat, and play the queen -of the party." - -"How delightful, Daddy!" cried Nancy; then as she glanced at Mayne, -"Oh, poor Captain Mayne!--your jaw has dropped four cubic inches; but -I do assure you, it will be all right--when I'm out on a beat, and sit -up in a machan, I'm so deadly, deadly, quiet, that you might hear a fly -sneeze!" - - - - - CHAPTER VIII - - THE PANTHER'S SECOND VICTIM - - -The expedition down to the Holikul jungle, proved a triumphant success, -not only in the matter of sport, but of well-chosen and congenial -company; Nancy, far from being an encumbrance, largely contributed to -the comfort of the party. - -The little camp was surprisingly well found; ice never failed, a -tablecloth and brilliant tropical flowers, gave a touch of civilization -to the alfresco meals, and after a long arduous beat among sweltering -undergrowth, it was agreeable and refreshing, to sit out in the -starlight, whilst Nancy and Nicky Byng sang solos and duets, the -servants squatted round at a respectful distance, and Togo kept -solitary ward. - -Nancy proved to be well versed in forest lore. What she had picked up -as a small child, when accompanying her father on various shooting -expeditions, had never faded from a mind which held all impressions -with tenacity. She knew the names of strange trees, and gorgeous -flowering shrubs, and could relate, stirring legends and fabulous tales -of the mysterious white tiger. - -In her own line, Miss Travers proved as successful a hostess, as -her great example at Clouds Rest, and in spite of her ingenuous -girlhood,--had a way of mothering, and managing, the entire circle. -There was not a spark of coquetry in her composition. She chatted to -Ted and Nicky, precisely as if she were their pal and comrade, and it -was evident to Mayne, that the "Corner boys," no less than Travers -himself, worshipped the sole of this wood elf's small brown shoe! - -Her birthday was an auspicious occasion. The house-servants, and head -shikari, offered bouquets and wreaths; "The Corner" presented a tennis -bat, and Mayne had surreptitiously placed a little parcel upon Nancy's -plate. As she opened the blue velvet case, and beheld its contents, she -gave a scream of delighted surprise. - -"Oh, Daddy, how dare you? you wicked man!" she cried; "it's far too -beautiful for me. I've always longed for a wristlet watch,--but never a -gold one like _this_--why, it's prettier than Finchie's," and she rose -to embrace him. - -"Here is the wicked man," he protested, pointing to Mayne; "my present -has not arrived, but I expect it is waiting for you up at Fairplains." - -"Captain Mayne," she exclaimed, with dancing eyes, "how ever so much -too kind of you! I declare I'd like to kiss you. May I, Daddy?" -glancing at him interrogatively. - -Mayne looked at him expectantly, and stood up, prepared to accept this -astonishing favour. - -"My dear child," said Travers, "you are eighteen to-day, and must not -go thrusting your kisses on young men." - -"But I never did before," she protested. - -"You should keep your first kiss for someone, who may come along one -day!" - -"Oh, Daddy," she murmured, blushing deeply through her tan, "now you -have made me feel so shy, and uncomfortable. You all know," appealing -to Ted and Nicky, "that I only wanted to do something, just to show -Captain Mayne, how delighted I was--and am." - -"You can do that in another way, Nancy," he replied, resuming his seat. -"Call me by my Christian name--the same as these fellows." - -"Derek--yes--and it's much prettier than Ted, or Nicky." - -"So now, Mayne," said Nicky, "you are paid off handsomely, and at _our_ -expense." - -It was a merry, not to say noisy breakfast party; Nancy with two long -white wreaths round her neck (in a third she had invested her father), -the wristlet watch on her mahogany wrist, was in the wildest spirits. - -"I woke this morning very early," she said; "almost before the birds, -not because I was expecting presents in my stocking,--like at Christmas -time, but because I was going to be eighteen, and I seemed to hear -the bamboos--you all know how they whisper--murmuring to one another, -'Eighteen, eighteen, eighteen!'" - -"Eighteen, will have to take to gloves and corsets," said Nicky, as he -fumbled for his pipe. - -"Fancy mentioning such an article in the free-as-air jungle," protested -Nancy; "and anyway, my waist is only twenty inches." - -"Nancy, spare us these particulars," protested her father. "One would -think you were among a pack of women." - -"Never mind him, Nancy," said Byng. "Tell him it's too late to start to -keep you in bounds--and as for waists--Ted's is fifty." - -"Daddy, I do wonder what you have got for me," she asked abruptly. -"Won't you tell me?" - -"I know," said Mayne; "it's awfully nice, you'll like it better than -anything--and it's coming all the way from London." - -"Then it must have cost a heap of money," she exclaimed. "Oh, Daddy!" - -"Oh, Nancy," he echoed, "it's time we made a start; the shikaris are -hanging about, so don't let us waste any more time," and he rose, and -broke up the party. - -Those three days in the Holikul jungles were a delightful, and -flawless memory, to all concerned. How rarely can mortals say this! -Sunburnt and weary, the Fairplains party returned to the shelter of -a roof, and a daily delivery of letters, and parcels. The habit had -arrived--moreover, it fitted. - -Two evenings later, Travers and Mayne, Nancy and the head shikari, had -been for a short, perfunctory beat, round the base of the hill on which -the bungalow was situated. They were homeward bound, the bag, a mere -peacock. Mayne and his host were a little in advance of Nancy, and last -came the shikari, carrying the peacock, and Travers' gun. - -"This day week," said Mayne, "I shall be on my way----" - -As he was speaking, they turned an abrupt corner, and there, within -forty yards, on a slab of rock, lay a sleek panther, and her two fat -cubs! As she sprang erect, Mayne ran forward, and fired. But slightly -wounded, she instantly leapt at him, and with such headlong ferocity, -and impetus, that the weight of her body knocked him down, and sent -his gun flying. Without a second's hesitation, Travers, armed with -only a stick, rushed to where the savage brute was worrying her -prostrate victim, and with all his might, hit her a smashing blow -across the nose. Turning on him, with a furious snarl, she seized him -by the forearm, but before she could do more, Tipoo ran up, and shot -her through the head. She fell back, and after a few kicks, and one -convulsive quiver, rolled over stone dead. - -The whole scene had taken place within less than the space of two -minutes. Nancy at first had stood by, a horrified, and paralysed -spectator, but when the panther attacked her father,--she ran forward, -and struck at it frantically, with her stick. - -And now to take stock of the casualties! Mayne, thanks to a heavy -shooting coat, had merely a few bruises, and scratches--nothing to -speak of,--in short a miraculous escape. Travers also, had got off with -a scratch on his neck, and a bite on his forearm. The latter might -have been worse,--but his coat had also saved him. - -"Sam's leopard--and you nearly got him!" he said to Mayne. "You fired a -bit too soon, my boy." - -"I believe I did--I was so keen to get the brute before she -bolted,--I'm most awfully sorry." - -"Oh, it's all right," replied Travers. "I'm well used to these -scraps--she's a fine size." - -"Never mind the panther, Dad," interposed Nancy, "but come along at -once and have your arm dressed, and Captain Mayne too," and she ran on -before them towards the bungalow, to collect, and prepare remedies. - -Nancy had learned "First Aid," and was accustomed to doctor the -household and coolies; she dressed the wounds, and scratches with -prompt and skilful fingers, forbade all stimulants, and commanded her -patients to rest till dinner-time. This was by no means the first time -that Travers had been in a "hand to claw" combat, with a wild beast, -but to Mayne, it was a novel experience, and he felt not a little -shaken, and excited. It is not a pleasant sensation to have a heavy, -evil-smelling wild animal, on the top of you, and murderous yellow -fangs within six inches of your throat. - -The following morning, the two patients described themselves as -"quite fit." Travers with his arm in a sling, went about his everyday -business, and Mayne commenced to make arrangements for his impending -departure. That evening Travers appeared to be fatigued, his eyes were -unusually bright, and Nancy's smiling face, wore an anxious expression. - -"Dad, I'd like to send for Dr. Hicks, to have a look at your arm," she -said, as they sat in the verandah after dinner. - -"Certainly not, Nancy," he replied testily; "you have done everything -that is necessary. I daresay I have brought a touch of fever from -Holikul. That's all that ails me. The bite is nothing. Now look here, -little girl, I won't have you worry." - -As his tone was authoritative, Nancy, whatever she may have thought, -said nothing further. - -The next day Travers made a very early start, and did not return,--as -was often the case,--in time for breakfast; and Nancy and Mayne were -_tête-à-tête_. - -"Father is so hardy and wiry, and so used to jungle accidents," -she remarked, "he won't ever allow me to look after him properly. -On Tuesday, only for him and his stick," she paused and glanced -expressively at Mayne. - -"Yes, by Jove! the panther would have had me! There's no doubt your -father saved my life. That brute was making for my throat. I saw her -yellow eyes glaring into mine, she had her claws dug into my shoulders, -and, Lord, how her breath smelt! Yes, for once, I was face to face with -death; and I'd be dead and buried _now_--only for that swinging stroke -across her muzzle." - -"The cubs made her savage," said Nancy. "Tipoo has shot them both--such -well-fed, fat, little creatures. All the family skins are now being -dried. Only for those cubs, the panther would never have faced -you--they are such slinking, treacherous cowards." - -"And only for your father, _I'd_ not be sitting here." - -"And how dreadful for your poor mother, if anything had happened to -you! If I were to die, it would almost kill Daddy." - -Mayne made no reply. Mentally, he was comparing his mother, with her -father. Nancy looked as if she would still be flourishing at the end of -half a century, but if anything were, as she expressed it, "to happen -to her," it was quite possible, that Travers would go clean off his -head. - -Travers returned at tea-time; as he stumbled into the verandah, and -sank exhausted into a chair, he looked completely "done." - -"Ah, I see you have been down to the lower ground," said Nancy. "Now -that was really _too_ bad of you,--when you have a touch of fever." - -As she handed him his cup she added: - -"Let me feel your hand--why, it's almost red-hot!" - -"My dear child, don't make a fuss," he exclaimed irritably; "I'll take -a dose of quinine, and lie down till dinner-time,--will that please -you?" - -Nancy said no more, but shut her lips tightly, and began to prepare his -special buttered toast. - -"I can't touch anything," he protested, "but I've an awful thirst on," -and he swallowed greedily, one after the other, two large cups of tea. - -"I'm afraid I must worry you, dear Daddy, and dress your arm," she -urged. "I promise I'll be as quick as I can," and she led him away to -his own room. Presently she returned, and said to Mayne, who was still -sitting in the verandah: "I want you to ride over at once, and ask Dr. -Hicks to drop in this evening,--quite casually, of course. I simply -dare not tell Daddy I've sent for him; he always pooh-poohs doctors, -and illnesses, and he won't allow me to take his temperature, nor will -he go to bed. His arm has a queer, livid appearance, and is terribly -swollen; I must say, I cannot help feeling rather nervous." - -"Oh, all right," said Mayne, rising; "I'll be off at once, and I'll -bring Hicks back with me,--dead or alive." - -When Mayne arrived at Panora, Dr. Hicks happened to be out, and it -was nine o'clock when the two men reached Fairplains. By this time -Travers, who now admitted that he was "feeling a bit out of sorts," was -obviously worse. - -As they rode over, Mayne had given the doctor full particulars, about -the panther affair,--including the bites, and scratches. - -"There may be poison in them," said Dr. Hicks; "these old panthers eat -garbage, and putrid carcases, and are nasty brutes to deal with; and -if septic poison sets in, Travers is rather a bad subject, and it may -go hard with him. However," he added philosophically, "there is no use -meeting trouble half way, and whatever happens, we must keep a cheerful -face before Nancy. There's a good, single-hearted child, if ever there -was one, and if by any chance, she were to lose her father--mind you, -I'm not saying there _is_ a chance--I don't know what would become of -her!" - - - - - CHAPTER IX - - "GIVE NANCY TO ME!" - - -Having examined his patient, Dr. Hicks came out into the verandah in -order to confer with Mayne. His face was alarmingly grave, and he spoke -with his eyes anxiously fixed on the communicating doors,--and in a -lowered voice. - -"He's pretty bad; high fever, temperature 104; his arm is frightfully -swelled--it's the bite. I am sending for a nurse and vaccine, also -for my wife. She's uncommonly capable, and always comes well up to -scratch on these occasions, and of course, we must have some woman -here to look after Nancy--in case of"--he hesitated for a second, and -added--"delirium and complications." - -"You don't mean to say it's as serious as all that?" cried Mayne, -aghast. - -"I'm afraid it is; but I'll move heaven and earth to pull Travers -through. We can spare anyone, sooner than the Earl,--as we call him." - -"Can't I go some message, or be of some use? For God's sake give me a -job," and Mayne paused, half choked. "You see, it was through saving -_me_, that Travers is like this!" - -"Oh, all right," agreed the doctor briskly, "then you can ride down -to Tirraputty, and send off a couple of wires. It will take you about -three hours to get there,--riding hard." - -"What about Mrs. Ffinch's car? I can drive a motor." - -"She's away in it herself!--gone for a week's tour. She took my girl -Jessie, and Nellie Meach, and left no address. 'Expect me when you see -me' style. Ah, here comes Nancy!" as the girl, now looking strangely -worn, and haggard, came into the verandah. - -"What are you two conspiring about?" she asked, with a startled -expression. - -"I'm only telling Mayne a piece of news. Mrs. Ffinch is away on a motor -tour." - -"Oh!"--evidently relieved--"is that all?" - -"Word of honour, yes," the doctor lied with emphasis. - -"Won't you stay and have something?" she urged. - -"Oh, well, I don't mind. Just anything at all--a bit of cold meat, and -a hunch of bread.--I'll ask for a shake-down, too." - -"A shake-down!" staring at him with widely-opened eyes; "then you -think----" and she paused, unable to utter another syllable, or -articulate her heartsick uneasiness. - -"I think you're a silly girl!" he said brusquely. "You know as well as -I do, that I must dress your father's arm every three hours. You'd like -him to have the very best attention, my dear, wouldn't you? It isn't -everyone I'd do as much for. I can tell you,--losing my dinner, and -sleeping out. I'm sending Mayne here to Tirraputty to wire for a nurse." - -"A nurse! Certainly not!" protested Nancy with energy. "_I_ am his -nurse." - -"Now, my good Nancy, if you are going to be silly and obstructive, and -to stand in the way of what is necessary for your father, I'd like to -know what I'm to do with you?" - -"But a nurse--an utter stranger!" - -"Yes, a professional, clear-headed, experienced woman, who has no -emotions--to counteract her work." - -"Father won't have her!!" declared the girl triumphantly. - -"He will, if _you_ ask him," rejoined the doctor. "My dear child, I had -no idea you were so set upon your own way." - -"Then I am to realize that father is--in _danger_?" she demanded, with -trembling lips. - -"Nothing of the sort," he replied, now lying boldly and well. "You are -to realize that you must be a sensible girl, and instead of fighting -against remedies, and the doctor, to help him with your last breath." - -Nancy gazed at him steadily, and after a moment's silence, she said: - -"All right, you need not ask _me_ to do my best," and she returned to -the sick-room. - -At eight o'clock the following morning, when, stiff and weary, Mayne -dismounted from his cob, he found that a dark cloud had settled down -on Fairplains. In the verandah, he discovered an anxious gathering, -talking together in low voices, and in groups. Here were Ted and Nicky, -Tom Pollard, young Meach--and Mrs. Hicks. They each nodded a welcome, -and the lady advanced, and said: - -"I came over early; he is worse. The fever is septic," she added, and -her round black eyes filled with tears. - -"He is sleeping all right," announced Dr. Hicks, who joined them; -"so is Nancy,--I put something in her tea. She was up all night, -poor child, and is thoroughly worn out. The nurse will be here about -eleven,--and another doctor." - -"It's too awful!" stammered Mayne, who had grown ghastly white. "Do you -know, Mrs. Hicks, that by rights, I should be in Travers' place?" - -"Tut, tut, tut!" she protested, giving him a push; "you go and have a -bath, and some breakfast." - -"Tell me," appealing to her husband, "will he get over it? Is there no -chance?" - -"There may be a turn at sundown, please God." - -"If not----?" - -"These cases last about four days--that brute's claws were so many -poison-bags." - -Without another word, Dr. Hicks turned away. - -At noon, the nurse and specialist, arrived together, and presently -there ensued grave consultations, whisperings, and ominous shaking of -heads. - -On account of its superior size, and in spite of Nancy's frenzied -entreaties, the patient was moved into the drawing-room,--the most -spacious apartment in the bungalow, with a northern aspect. - -Mayne did not venture to speak to Nancy, who looked as if she -scarcely recognized him, when she flitted about like a wraith between -the sick-room, and verandah. Kindly, vulgar Mrs. Hicks, at whom he -used to laugh, was now his support and comfort. She brought him -bulletins, insisted on his taking food, and appeared to keep the -whole establishment together; interviewing callers, writing chits, -dispatching messengers, concocting dainties, and altogether reversing -Mayne's opinion of "silly Mrs. Hicks." For her part, she was sincerely -sorry for this worn, haggard-looking young man, who seemed to dread the -impending tragedy, almost as much as Travers' own daughter. - -Once or twice Mayne had been permitted to stand in the door of the -drawing-room, and there exchange a few words with the patient. Quite -late that evening, when he was disconsolately pacing the avenue, Mrs. -Hicks came out, and joined him. - -"How has he been since sundown?" he inquired. - -"Neither better nor worse. We have sent for Mr. Brownlow, the padre; he -will be here early to-morrow evening. Anyway, he'd have had to come up -for the funeral." - -"The funeral! Oh, good Lord!" exclaimed Mayne in a choked voice, -"surely you are not thinking of _that_?" - -"Now don't _you_ go and break down, my dear boy," said Mrs. Hicks, -thumping him on the back; "we must all keep up; while there's life -there's hope, and we have to put on a bold face before Nancy. I have -contrived to get her to bed. _He_ sent her. May God forgive me for all -the lies I've told that poor child. If this ends badly, it'll break her -heart. Poor dear! I can't think whatever is to become of her? She won't -have a penny of her own in the wide world,--and there's no relations to -speak of." - -"What--no relations?" repeated Mayne incredulously. - -"None that would come forward, anyhow. Her mother was an orphan, and -Travers' people broke with him; first of all, because he married a -governess, and lastly, because he lost his money. However, if Nancy has -no belongings, she has lots of friends up here; we will all do what we -can. Well now, I see Francis--he wants me," and she hastily abandoned -her companion, leaving him to meditate upon her information. - -Mayne went slowly down to the tennis ground; the tennis ground, -entirely secluded, was a refuge, and here he could hold a long and -uninterrupted conference with himself. Considering the affair from -every point of view, he soon arrived at the conclusion, that _he_ -was solely responsible for Nancy's future. Why should these good, -kind-hearted people offer her a shelter, when he, who was accountable -for a tragedy, that cost her a parent and a home, made no effort to -provide for her? - -During one whole hour, he did a sort of meditative "sentry go" up and -down the kunkur courts. Mrs. Hicks' illuminating remarks, had presented -Nancy's situation, in its true light: the girl had no relations, -no income, and would be entirely dependent on the charity of her -kind-hearted neighbours; and he was answerable for the fact, that she -would be left homeless, and penniless. If her father had not interfered -when the panther attacked him, in another second, the brute would have -torn his throat out--the blow, transferred her fury to Travers. But -for Travers, he would now be lying in a new grave in the garden. The -least he could do, was to provide a home for Travers' daughter--though -nothing could make up to her, for the one she was about to lose. Had -his mother been like the usual run of mothers, Nancy could have lived -with her; unfortunately there were half a dozen "buts," and Lady -Torquilstone abhorred girls. - -There was one alternative;--vainly he thrust this from him; but it -returned again, and yet again, to confront him inflexibly. Yes, he -was powerless against the malignity of events, powerless to evade the -inevitable. _He must marry Nancy._ It was the only thing to do! He -would thankfully have given her half his income; but, it was not to be -supposed, that she would accept his money; she might look upon it as -the price of blood! - -He liked Nancy, she was a really good sporting sort; straight as a -die, a capital pal; but as a wife--he would not know what to make of -her? She would be such an unlikely and unaccountable Mrs. Mayne. She -looked a mere flapper too, in spite of her eighteen years, and was -occasionally capable of the most startling behaviour. He recalled -the kiss she had offered him on her birthday, and her various tomboy -tricks. What would the regiment think of Nancy? and what would Nancy -think of the regiment? - -After many pacings to and fro, his mind became definitely resolved. -There are moments in the lives of individuals, when their conduct has -to be decided, not by material profit, but by instinctive loyalty to -what is best in their nature; and although marriage was the last step -Mayne had intended to take, nevertheless he determined to adventure the -great plunge! Yes, his decision was unalterably fixed, there was actual -relief in the sensation. He was turning about for the fiftieth time -when he noticed a figure in the moonlight beckoning to him violently -from the top of the steps. It was Mrs. Hicks, who screamed out: - -"So you're down there, are you? I could not find you! Been looking for -you all over the place. He has been asking for you, and the doctors say -you may go in, and stay a quarter of an hour." - -As Mayne entered the sick-room, he noticed even within the last few -hours, a grave change in Travers: a change that was the unmistakable -forerunner of the last change of all. The sick man's face looked drawn, -his sunken eyes extraordinarily bright and restless,--with a sort of -watching expression. There was also some strange element in the room: -something that seemed to be waiting--the silence was pregnant, with -significance. - -"My dear fellow, I'm very glad to see you," Travers began, in a thin -weak voice; "come and sit down. They are making out that I am in a bad -way, and won't allow anyone near me, but Nancy, poor girl. I may pull -through, and I hope I shall, for her sake; she's such a child to be -left all alone to battle with the world." - -"Not alone," said Mayne gravely, "as long as I am to the fore. By -rights I should be lying there instead of you, and if the worst----" He -could not go on. - -"You are very good, my boy! Although I have only known you for six -weeks, I am as fond of you as of an old friend,--and indeed you seem -so. I've never saved money until lately. There will be enough for -Nancy's passage, and perhaps my sister may take the child; she was a -spoiled beauty, and is now, to all accounts, a hard, selfish woman. She -and I have not spoken for twenty years. Still Nancy is her niece--her -only near relative." - -"Look here, sir," interrupted Mayne, "by rights I should be in your -place,--it was all my fault. I was in too great a hurry. I blundered -shockingly when I aimed, so deadly keen to shoot Sam's panther; but -I only enraged her, and made her charge. You knew my father, and are -good enough to say, you like me. I have five hundred a year, besides my -pay--give Nancy into my care. Give Nancy--to _me_!" - -Travers gazed at him steadily; the sunken dark eyes were interrogative. - -"As my wife, of course," he continued nervously. "I swear to you, that -I'll look upon her as a sacred trust, and do all I can to make her -happy. As it is, we are capital friends; I believe she likes me--and I -am awfully fond of her. We really know one another far better than most -people who marry--having lived here together for the last six weeks. -What do you say?" - -"I am a bit surprised," replied Travers at last: "although the notion -of my little Nance being married seems preposterous, you have lifted a -heavy load off my mind, and God bless you." He put out a burning hand, -which Mayne wrung. Then he added, "But I cannot allow you to talk as if -I had sacrificed myself; it was all in the day's work, the fortune of -war--and--I'll be with my other Nancy before long." - -"May I speak to Nancy?" asked Mayne, after a short silence, "or shall I -wait?" - -"No, I never was a fellow to put off things. I'll see her as soon as -possible,--and look here, Derek," and he gazed up at him appealingly, -"would you think I was rushing you, if I asked you to have the marriage -before I go? Then she will not be left so desolate, my poor little -darling. She will have her natural protector. Do you mind? I know--it -may seem a bit sudden." - -"No," replied Mayne firmly. "I think it will be best. I'll make -arrangements at once." - -"All right, then I'll have a talk to Nancy by and by, and you shall -hear what she says. Of course I know there's never been any sort of -flirting, or love-making between you--she's just a child! but I'd -leave her with a happy mind, if I knew that my little girl was in -the care of a good, honest fellow, like yourself. It will be a queer -coincidence if Derek Mayne's son is to be the husband of my daughter. -The parson will be here to-morrow, and may find two jobs. Ah, Nurse, -all right--I'll stop! No, I've not been doing myself any harm--very -much the other way. Good-night, my boy." - - - - - CHAPTER X - - MARRIAGE AND DEATH - - -Very early the next morning when Nancy came out of her father's room, -she found Mrs. Hicks already in the verandah, wrapped in a flaming -kimona, and sipping a cup of tea. - -"Well, dear child?" she began, then paused, and looked at her -interrogatively. - -"Daddy has been talking to me," she announced in a dull voice, staring -at Mrs. Hicks with a curious dazed expression, "and--he--he wishes -me--to marry Captain Mayne." - -"Lors!" exclaimed her companion, jumping to her feet. "Whatever for?" - -"Because I'm so alone in the world, and have no home!" replied the -girl, as if she was repeating a lesson. - -"And what does the Captain say?" - -"He wishes it too." - -"And what do _you_ say, Ducky?" - -"Oh," with a frantic gesture of her hand, "is it any matter about _me_? -Don't you know, that I would kill myself, that I would be cut in little -pieces, if it would give any relief to Daddy,--and I am the one _thing_ -that seems to trouble him." - -"Well, I won't say that it isn't a wise plan!" declared Mrs. Hicks, -folding her fat arms in her kimona; "the Captain is a fine young -fellow, and has everyone's good word,--even Mrs. Pollard, and you know -how she takes a bit out of people. But still, if you don't really fancy -him, dearie, I _wouldn't_. Marriage," now sitting down, "is a big -affair, not to be settled at a moment's notice, like a game of tennis. -This Mayne, they say, has high and mighty relations, and I don't -believe there's ever been a word of love talk between you--much less a -kiss." - -Nancy made a movement of fierce repudiation. - -"And from something Mrs. F. dropped," resumed Mrs. Hicks, "I know she -has her plans for you--as well as others." - -"Don't!" cried the girl. "Don't talk of plans, and schemes--it's this -very second that counts. I shall do whatever pleases Daddy--and I'm -going to speak to Captain Mayne now." - -"Well, maybe it's all for the best! Anyhow, it'll be a wonderful ease -to your poor father. God help you, my child!" - -"They wish the marriage to take place to-morrow," said Nancy, and her -lips twitched visibly as she added--"when Mr. Brownlow comes." - -"Well I _never_!" ejaculated Mrs. Hicks, and her round ruddy face -assumed an awestruck expression, "but there's sense in that too. If it -was put off, and you were to go home, things might happen. Some young -men are as slippery as eels. Mind you, I'm not saying one word against -Mayne; he doesn't seem that sort--his mouth has a tight look. Still, -one of you might be talked out of it--like my own Jessie." - -During this oration, Nancy's face had become as rigid and set as that -of a waxen mask, suddenly laying her hand on Mrs. Hicks' arm, she said: - -"If father dies, I don't care _what_ becomes of me! I only hope and -pray, I may not live long. I'll do anything he asks for now,--fancy -the horror that would haunt me,--if I were to say no, to his very last -wishes!" - -"Nancy, child, if you could only cry, it would be such a wonderful -relief to your poor heart. Lors, here is Mayne coming! Maybe you'd -better take him into the Den, and talk it out face to face." - -"You know all about it, Nancy," he began, when she beckoned him to -follow her into the little room, where both had spent such pleasant -hours. - -She nodded assent. Within the last three days the girl appeared to have -undergone an extraordinary change; the childish air had vanished; her -face was shrunken, and drawn, all life and spontaneity had departed. -She wore a long white peignoir, which gave her height and dignity, and -looked years older--in short, it was another personality. - -"You know I'm awfully fond of you, Nance," continued Mayne, stooping -to take a cold, limp hand, "and that I'll do my very best to make you -happy." - -"_Happy!_" and she dashed his hand aside, "as if I could _ever_ be -happy again!" - -"You will, by and by," he went on steadily, unmoved by her outburst; -"we shall settle down; you will get used to soldiering--and this awful -time will be as a bad dream." - -"Never," rejoined Nancy with emphasis. "Bad dreams are forgotten. -Do you imagine, that I shall ever forget _this_?" and she stared at -him with a pair of tearless, glittering eyes. Then there ensued a -long, expressive, and uncomfortable pause, during which Togo trotted -in, and gazed at the couple. They seemed so odd,--almost like two -strangers: the girl sitting by the closed piano, the man with his hands -in his pockets, standing with his back to the wall. After a moment's -hesitation, and bewilderment, Togo trotted out. - -"Well, Nancy, what do you think?" inquired Mayne at last. - -"I'll do anything father wishes--anything to make him at ease. They -say," and she choked, then continued in a hard, metallic voice, "he has -only two days to live." - -"I wish to God it had been me instead," burst out Mayne. - -"So do I," agreed Nancy, with pitiless fervour, and something wild, and -hostile, looked out of her eyes as she added, "and only for Daddy, it -_would_ have been you." - -"That is true; he gave his life for mine." - -"And," said the girl, rising as she spoke, "I am to give mine to you; -well, since he wishes it, you may take it!" - -Without another word or glance, she turned her back upon Mayne, and -departed to her post in the sick-room. - - * * * * * - -During all this time, Mrs. Hicks, as her husband had boasted, came well -to the fore. Apparently accustomed to sickness, and death, she was -surprisingly energetic and practical, altogether a saner, more subdued, -and silent, Mrs. Hicks. - -The doctor's verdict had now gone forth, and the whole establishment -was figuratively clothed in sackcloth and ashes. Neighbours from far -and near crowded the verandah; melancholy and dejected, these awaited -bulletins, and in some cases, farewell interview with their dying -friend. - -Nancy never appeared among the callers,--everything remained in the -hands of Dr. and Mrs. Hicks. When a visitor entered the sick-room, -she noiselessly slipped away, but at other times, Travers' dog, and -Travers' daughter, were his chief companions. - -The grim drawing-room had been completely altered to suit its present -use. Most of the hateful black furniture was piled up behind the -screen! A small camp bed, a long arm-chair, and a round table occupied -the middle of the apartment. On the latter, a few books, photographs, -and odds and ends--Travers' poor treasures--had been hastily collected. - -The sick man was not in bed, but reclined in the long chair wrapped -in his dressing-gown,--with death in his face, a stout heart in his -breast,--the only cheerful inmate in Fairplains. His left arm and -hand were terribly swollen. With his right he had written a few lines -to his sister, and to Fletcher.--Short notes enclosed and addressed -by Nancy.--Also he had made his will, and given her many directions, -and much advice; to all of which the girl had listened with immovable -composure--knowing that to break down would be terribly distressing to -her father--who, with extraordinary fortitude, now calmly awaited the -end. - -The following morning Mr. Brownlow arrived, and was hospitably -entertained by Mrs. Hicks. To his immense surprise, the wire which -summoned him, had invited him not only to visit a sick friend, but to -prepare for the solemnization of a marriage, and his amazement was not -lessened, when informed that Travers' little Nancy was to be the bride! - -A lengthy interview with the dying man was interrupted by Mrs. Hicks, -who entered the drawing-room, bearing in either hand a large vase -of white lilies--a signal for the wedding ceremony. Presently Mayne -appeared in his Sunday suit, prayer-book in hand, followed by Dr. -Hicks, Ted Dawson, and, by special desire, Francis, a Catholic. The -last to arrive was Nancy wearing a fresh white linen frock. Then the -doors were closed, and after a little confidential discussion, and -whispering, the ceremony commenced. - -The couple about to be married, took their places before Mr. -Brownlow,--who used an old prie-dieu as desk.--Nancy stood as close as -possible to her father, who, at the question, "Who giveth this woman to -be married to this man?" in a firm, loud voice, answered, "I do." - -Accordingly "Eleanora Nancy" was married (with her mother's -wedding-ring) to "Derek Danvers Mayne." The bridegroom appeared grave -and anxious, the bride looked like an automaton, going through a -mechanical performance, for which she had been carefully wound up. - -When the Service was ended, the certificate duly signed, and witnessed, -there was a celebration of the Holy Communion, and the little gathering -retired. - -It was an ominous fact, that as soon as she found herself alone, the -first thing that the bride did, was to tear off her wedding-ring, -and lock it away. It had been decided by Mayne and Travers, that the -marriage was to be kept secret, at least until after the funeral, and -everything went on precisely as if it had not taken place. - -With regard to the funeral, the presence of Mr. Brownlow awaiting the -occasion for his services, seemed to Nancy, Mayne, and others, a most -hideous and heartrending necessity: Laurence Travers was still in the -land of the living, and here was his friend Brownlow, waiting on at -Fairplains,--as all the world was aware,--in order to read the funeral -service over his dead body! - -Nancy and Mayne encountered one another in the sick-room and at -meals,--for Mrs. Hicks was inflexible with regard to food. She scolded -vigorously, in a subdued voice, when the girl refused to eat; demanding -to know, what was the good of her starving herself, and of being laid -up, and no use to anyone? - -Nancy rarely opened her lips, the dread of her impending bereavement -was beyond words. She had lost much of her deep tan colour, and looked -pinched, and haggard; it was a young face, aged and racked with -torture, yet so far, she had not shed one single tear. On the contrary, -her eyes had a fixed glassy stare, like those of a wax doll. - -"Feed her up, and keep her going!" was Dr. Hicks' counsel to the -newly-wed bridegroom. "The girl is so unnaturally restrained, that I'm -afraid of some sort of a bad collapse." - -But whenever Mayne urged Nancy to rest, or to spare herself, he was -met with an impatient shrug, or a brusque refusal; and realized the -uncomfortable fact, that she rarely spoke to, or looked at him, of her -own accord; but naturally every precious moment was devoted to her -dying father. - -Travers' slight recovery on the day of the wedding was followed that -night by a grave relapse, turning to delirium, finally coma; and the -following day, he passed away at sunset. The prayers for the dying -offered by Mr. Brownlow were almost drowned in the clanging of the -coolies' gong. Their task for the day was over--and Travers' life's -work ended at the same hour. - -That night the bungalow itself was silent as a tomb, but the peaceful -repose was broken by the weird death wail in the go-downs and coolies' -quarters. - -The funeral was immense. People from great distances, hills and plains -alike, flocked to pay the last tribute to an old friend.--Laurence -Travers had been in Coffee for twenty-five years. - -Among the most prominent mourners were Mr. and Mrs. Ffinch; she had -only returned home that morning, and was shocked by the news which -assailed her, almost before she had set foot in her house. Having been -beyond the reach of letters, this was the first that she had heard, -even of Travers' illness: and the sudden announcement of his death, was -a stunning blow. Although tired, and inclined to be hysterical, she -pulled herself together with a great effort in order to accompany her -husband to Fairplains. - -During the Burial Service many of the women wept. Nancy never shed a -tear, but stood by the grave-side like a graven image in white stone. -Afterwards, she fled away to her room, where she locked herself in; -refusing admittance to all,--even deaf to the beseeching of her own -dearest, and broken-hearted, "Finchie." - -Truly these were really miserable days for Derek Mayne! who weighed -down by the loss of a good friend, and his own share in the tragedy, -had now added to his trouble, a wife who undoubtedly _hated_ him! He -read this fact in her dull, but still expressive eyes. She avoided him -pointedly; even at the funeral, she had moved from his side in order to -stand by Mrs. Ffinch; and once, when he had made an attempt to offer -consolation and a caress, she had looked at him so fiercely; almost as -if she could have struck him! Of course the miserable child was nearly -off her head--and no wonder; but this was not an encouraging beginning -for a life-long partnership! - -His leave would be up in three days, and what then? The estate must be -taken in hand at once: Ted and Nicky were working it at present, like -the good fellows that they were, but a capable manager who could live -on the spot, was in this, the busiest season, absolutely essential. - -In the East, events march with amazing speed; as one man falls, another -fills his place--and so the world rolls on. Almost everything at -Fairplains, except such matters as books, guns, a few pieces of old -china and silver, belonged, as Travers had once expressed it, "lock, -stock and barrel" to Tom Fletcher; so the personal estate was easily -wound up. The assets were small; but on the other hand--there were no -debts. - -Dr. Hicks had taken his departure, but his good, capable wife still -remained in charge of Nancy, and the household. Mayne and she dined -_tête-à-tête_; and somehow in her brusque matter-of-fact way, she -cheered him: she talked of Nancy as "a darling; a girl with a heart of -gold, who, when she had found her breath again, after such a terrible -experience, would make him the best of wives, and was fit for any -society." - -"You only saw the jungle side," she explained, "but I can tell you, -that Miss Nancy is accomplished; she can play the piano, and sing and -dance as well as the best of your tip-toppers; she didn't waste her -time at school, you bet! She cost Laurence Travers about two hundred a -year, he never spared any expense upon his girl--we all know that." - -When Mrs. Hicks had withdrawn--she was an early to bed lady--Mayne -wandered about alone in the bright moonlight, thinking sorrowfully of -the dead man. - -Was it but a week ago, when they two, discussing a question of European -politics, had paced this very path, and since then, his companion had -set out for the undiscovered country? It seemed incredible. - -By and by he went and stood by the newly made grave; something was -lying across it, crushing all the beautiful wreaths and flowers. What -was it? On nearer inspection it proved to be Togo; who recognized his -disturber with a threatening growl. - -From the grave Mayne returned to the bungalow, and sat for a long time -alone in the empty verandah--what a change was here! The merry voices, -and the laughing that filled it a week ago, already belonged to the -past; every door stood wide, and a chill death-like stillness pervaded -the premises. Even in the servants' quarters--what a singular absence -of sound! - -All at once a wholly inexplicable impulse impelled Mayne to enter -the room where Travers had breathed his last; the corners looked -mysteriously, and forbiddingly dark; but in the centre, where the -moonlight streamed,--it was as light as day. The little iron cot -had been neatly made up, in the long chair--Mayne started, the moon -discovered a prone figure--Nancy! with her head buried among the -cushions; and something in the absolute abandonment of her limp and -lifeless attitude, brought to his mind the picture of a dead white bird. - -He stole away, noiseless as a shadow, with these two scenes indelibly -fixed upon his memory; Togo, keeping watch and ward over the grave, -Nancy prostrate in the death chamber. Surely few men had ever awakened -such profound grief, as Laurence Travers. - - - - - CHAPTER XI - - MRS. FFINCH INTERVENES - - -The Honourable Mrs. Ffinch was not merely the happy possessor of -an energetic mind, but of an elastic physique. As soon as she had -recovered from the shock of Travers' death, heart and soul she set -about arranging his affairs--naturally beginning with his orphan -daughter! - -Accordingly the afternoon after the funeral, the Clouds Rest car -once more glided up to Fairplains. On this occasion the visitor was -immediately admitted to see Nancy; who thanks to Mrs. Hicks' almost -violent insistence, had rested and eaten a mid-day meal. The white and -tearless girl submitted very patiently to her friend's caresses and -condolence. At last Mrs. Ffinch released her, and sat down,--still -holding her hand, as if she feared her escape,--began to talk to her -most seriously. - -"Well, my dear child, I've settled everything! your room at Clouds Rest -is ready, the Dirzee is waiting to fit your mourning, and I have come -to fetch you away,--for I don't intend to leave you another day with -Mrs. Hicks." - -"She has been so very, very kind," murmured Nancy, "I don't know what I -should have done without her." - -The visitor dismissed this statement, with an impatient gesture, as she -resumed: - -"And there's Captain Mayne! What is _he_ waiting for?" - -"I suppose he is waiting for _me_," was the unexpected reply. - -Mrs. Ffinch's large thin-lipped mouth opened, but no words came forth, -she merely gaped upon her young friend. - -"We were married on Friday," calmly announced the bride. - -"You were--_what_?" cried Mrs. Ffinch, hastily rising and towering over -the speaker. - -"Married--married in the drawing-room here. Father wished it." - -"And _you_?" demanded her breathless inquisitor. - -"Oh no." - -Here, within a few hours, was the second shock which Mrs. Ffinch had -sustained. To return to a hum-drum neighbourhood, after merely a week's -absence, and to find awaiting her, not only a sudden death, but a -sudden, amazing, and crazy marriage! Her head felt swimming; yet such -was the lady's ruling passion and ardour for managing, that even this -unparalleled situation, presented its compensations! With admirable -persistence and patience, she succeeded in dragging some facts from her -half-stunned and apathetic companion; and when all was made clear, she -said: - -"Fancy! of all people in the world--you and Derek Mayne! Such a -hopelessly unsuitable couple to be chained together for life! _What_ -have you in common?" - -Nancy shook her head. She was not in a frame of mind to furnish either -reasons, or arguments. - -"Nothing whatever," resumed Mrs. Ffinch, answering her own question. -"Certainly not sport--you merely went shooting, so as to be with your -Daddy: you know you hate killing things; you and Mayne agreed to -sacrifice yourselves, just to give that poor fellow an easy mind. My -dear, have you thought of the future?" - -Nancy made no reply, her eyes were fastened on the corner of the room. -Undoubtedly her thoughts were miles away from her companion. - -"Has Captain Mayne any plans? Come, come, Nancy, don't look so dull, -and dazed." - -"I don't know." - -"Don't know," repeated her friend, in a tone of exasperation. "My dear -good child, do try and rouse yourself, and think." - -"I think," said the girl, speaking very deliberately and as if talking -was an immense effort, "that he is going away the day after to-morrow." - -"And you too?" - -"I suppose so," assented the bride, in a tone of stolid indifference. - -"Good heavens--you 'suppose,' and you 'don't know.' Have you talked it -over together?" - -"No," was the whispered reply. - -Mrs. Ffinch threw up her shapely hands with a gesture of despair. - -"This private marriage has taken place simply because your father saved -your husband's life." - -"Don't call him my husband!" burst out Nancy, with a lightning flash of -her former self. - -"Well, dear, I won't, if you don't like it. Your poor Daddy has left -you alone--and from what I hear--almost penniless." - -These were hard words, and facts; but the Honourable Julia Ffinch never -flinched from the plainest of plain-speaking. - -"And Mayne naturally feels bound in honour to provide for you." - -An expressive silence followed this bald statement. - -"Dear me, how you do stare, child! You know, I'm fond of you, Nancy, -darling, and I'm most frightfully upset about all this terrible -trouble; but just at the moment, I want to put my own feelings -_entirely_ aside, and try and act for your benefit. I had no idea, that -we were in the least likely to lose you, or that you were on the brink -of such an _awful_ leap in the dark. There's no time to be lost; now -is the moment for action. I shall go and have a good square talk with -Captain Mayne. I see him wandering about outside, looking for all the -world as if he were a lost dog." - -As Mrs. Ffinch stepped down from the verandah to accost him, her first -words were: - -"So you and Nancy are married!" - -"Yes," he replied. "Don't you approve?" - -"I am simply horrified," she answered, with deliberate emphasis. "Yes, -I _am_." - -"But why?" he asked. "It was quite a sound thing to do." - -"Only for the circumstances of the case, neither of you would ever have -dreamt of such a mad proceeding. Come, would you--honour bright?" - -"Well, I don't suppose we should," he admitted reluctantly. - -"Now look here, Captain Mayne," turning to pace beside him. "I -must speak my mind. You don't care a pin for one another. Nancy is -a mere child of freedom, a child still in many ways, and totally -inexperienced; you spend your life in military harness. What will -become of her as a regimental lady?" - -Mayne coloured, and gave a short uneasy laugh. - -"Oh, she'll be all right, I daresay." - -"Why, only the other day you solemnly assured me, that you wouldn't -marry for years--if ever. I remember you quoted Kipling, 'He travels -fastest, who travels alone.'" - -"That's true," he admitted, "but unexpected things happen. One never -can tell. I daresay Nancy and I will worry along as well as other -people." - -"What a nice, cheerful way of looking at it," exclaimed Mrs. Ffinch. - -"Well, of course we have made an awkward sort of start; and at present -Nancy, who used to be my best friend, cannot endure me in her sight. -I shall let her have everything her own way--anyhow for a time--for I -can thoroughly understand her feelings. Only for _me_, her father might -be here talking to you at this moment. However, I intend to do my big -best. Perhaps once Nancy has left these surroundings, she may not take -things so desperately hard. Our Colonel's wife is a rare good sort, and -will mother her; and I'll bring along the old ayah, the pony, and the -dog, so that she won't feel altogether too strange. I must go down the -day after to-morrow; and there are lots of things to settle up before -that." - -"You will come over, and say good-bye to us, won't you? Hector would -like to see you, to talk business. He is arranging for a temporary -manager until he hears from Mr. Fletcher. He sent him a cable -yesterday." - -After a little conversation respecting the new manager, and the -winding-up of the household, Mrs. Ffinch returned to Nancy, whom she -found precisely as she had left her, sitting with clasped hands, and -downcast eyes, staring hard at the floor. - -"Come, come, my dear!" she protested briskly, "try and put away your -grief for a few minutes, and listen to me,--for I'm going to talk to -you, for your life-long good." - -Nancy raised herself with an effort, and gazed at her adviser with a -pair of large, lack-lustre, eyes. - -"Nancy, I have come to the conclusion, that you and Captain Mayne can -never be happy together. He is not one bit in love--I suppose you -realize _that_. He married you simply to fulfil what he considered -a duty,--the payment of an enormous debt! He belongs to a totally -different class--County people. I know his uncle--and I know his -mother--an odious, overbearing, cat! A super cat! I daresay you are -just as well born, but you will find that between you, and his people, -a great gulf is fixed. They will forget the true reason for the match, -and declare that he has been 'run in.' He has assured me more than once -that he had no intention of marrying; and is excessively anxious to -get on in his profession. I remember him saying that his sword was is -helpmate, and I know from my own experience, that an officer hampered -by a wife with no fortune, no helpful connections, is _too_ heavily -weighted." - -"Then what do you advise me to do?" murmured Nancy, almost inaudibly. - -"Remain with me at Clouds Rest, and let him return to Cananore alone. -Leave details to _me_; I can arrange everything,--I shall love doing -it! Scarcely a soul knows of the ceremony, and we shall keep it dark. -When once you are comfortably established with us, you shall write to -Captain Mayne, and tell him that he is absolutely released." - -"But will it not be breaking a promise to father?" and Nancy rose -out of her chair, and stood before her adviser, a limp, and dejected -figure--an almost unrecognizable Nancy! - -"No, my dearest child; you know, as well as I do, that your Daddy's -sole idea was for your _happiness_. This scrambled up 'shilling -shocker' affair would be for your _misery_." - -Mrs. Ffinch waxed eloquent. She warmed with her subject; excitement, -and enthusiasm carried to her feet, and she stalked about the room, -declaiming with both hands. On more than one occasion, she had made a -marriage; here was a notable opportunity to break one! This idea, to -do her justice, was not the sole cause of her energetic intervention. -Nancy, more dead than alive, had apparently no interest in her future; -and was willing to drift wherever a miserable fate would take her; but -Julia Ffinch was not the woman to suffer a favourite puppet to be lost -to her in such a fashion! Nancy should have another chance, recover her -health, and spirits at Clouds Rest--and let Captain Mayne go his own -way. - -Mrs. Ffinch had mapped out Nancy's future with a bewildering -thoroughness, and continued her exposition, and arguments with unabated -zeal. As for Captain Mayne, he would thankfully snatch at such a chance -of liberty; for never had she seen a young man so alarmingly altered, -and depressed. - -"If you and Captain Mayne stick to one another, it will be," she -announced, "a deplorable calamity for both,--and his professional -ruin. If either of you were in love, of course I would not say a -word; but this is really _too_ cold-blooded! Mayne married you to -pay the price for his life--you married him--because your father was -naturally anxious to see you provided for; there is the whole affair in -a nutshell," extending two expressive hands, "and in my opinion, the -kernel is rotten! - -"If I had been at home, this preposterous ceremony would never have -taken place. Thank goodness, it can be hushed up, and smothered -here--among the coffee bushes. Should it ever try to come to life, -the marriage must be annulled. As far as witnesses are concerned, -there will be _no_ difficulty. Doctor and Mrs. Hicks won't talk; and -Mr. Brownlow is about to settle in Tasmania. You will come and live -with me, and be my daughter," then with a cautious afterthought, "at -any rate for the present. As for Captain Mayne, he will rejoin his -regiment, and there won't be a whisper! He is coming over to-morrow -to Clouds Rest. I'll have a serious interview with him, and tell him -that he must really leave you with _me_. I know he will jump at the -offer, and be only too thankful to go off alone. Then as soon as he has -cleared out, you and I will put our heads together, and write him such -a clear, decisive letter, and put the matter so effectively, that he -will withdraw all claim." - -Here Mrs. Ffinch paused, a little out of breath from this long oration, -and surveyed her companion judicially. - -"Now what do you say, Nancy? Take your choice? Will you come to -_me_?--or go to _him_?" - -"I hate him!" was the startling rejoinder. - -"Ah, so I see you've made up your mind! Then the day after to-morrow, -I'll fetch you; I shall tell your ayah to put your things together. -I've given you the big room--so that you can have all your own -particular belongings round you--and I've ordered lots of mourning -paper. Well now, good-bye my own darling, don't think _too_ much; don't -let Mrs. Hicks worry you, and don't see more of _him_ than you can -help," and she nodded her head expressively. - -Then Mrs. Ffinch went forth, and was ceremoniously conducted to her -car by Captain Mayne, who, as he walked beside her, dropping a casual -"yes" or "no," little dreamt of the scheme that was maturing in his -companion's ever active brain. - - - - - CHAPTER XII - - "EXIT NANCY" - - -It was after sundown, when Nancy's eloquent visitor had taken a -prolonged farewell, and a reluctant departure. She was immediately -succeeded by Mrs. Hicks, charged with cheerful talk, anxious -interrogations and an enticing description of the forthcoming dinner; -nevertheless, the girl declared that she felt dead tired, and would -rather not appear, but have something sent in to her on a tray. - -As soon as the servants' voices, and the clatter of plates, assured -her that the meal was in active progress, Nancy slipped out, and stole -down to the tennis ground, in order to breathe a little fresh air, and -secure an uninterrupted think. The tennis ground was the most secluded -resort about the premises,--being sunken in the hillside, and invisible -from the bungalow. It was a pregnant coincidence, that the recently -married couple had each sought the same sanctuary! - -Nancy paced slowly to and fro; the agony of apprehension, and the -tension of a desperate hope, had come to an end. She was turning over -in her mind the various statements that Mrs. Ffinch had so frankly -disclosed. One or two stark-naked facts boldly presented themselves. -Fact number one: Captain Mayne had married her for no other reason, -than to discharge a debt, and to give her his protection, and a -home. This plain and odious truth, was unbearable. Once upon a -time--indeed only a week ago--she had liked Captain Mayne so much; -but now her feelings had undergone a sharp change, and all she -felt for him, was shuddering aversion. Yesterday, when he had put -his hand on her shoulder, she had felt inclined to scream! It was -undeniable--proclaimed another stout fact--that she had assented to the -marriage; but if it was ruinous to Captain Mayne, abhorrent to herself, -and unfair to them both,--_why_ hold to it? - -Another glaring truth revealed, that she was absolutely -homeless--unless she followed her fate to Cananore, or accepted what -was neither more nor less than Mrs. Ffinch's charity! Surely there must -be a third alternative? For the last eighteen months, she had held the -purse-strings, and saved her Daddy many rupees, and after the servants' -wages and other expenses were settled, there remained sufficient money -to pay her passage home, and leave a margin of about twenty pounds. - -She would go straight to her old school at Eastbourne: Mrs. -Beccles--who had always been her friend--would no doubt allow her to -remain there for a week or two, and assist her to find a situation -as companion, or governess. She was determined not to be carried off -to Clouds Rest; there, to become a pensioner, and non-paying guest. -She was really fond of Finchie, who was immensely kind, and generous; -but Finchie had more than once openly lamented, that "she so soon got -tired of people!" What if she grew tired of her? As Nancy cast her -thoughts back, she recalled the reigns of Blanche Meach; of Nicky Byng; -of Jessie; and there was no denying the fact that at the moment, she -herself was the official favourite. Even if she went to Clouds Rest for -a few weeks,--it would be only to prolong the present agony, and defer -a crisis. - -To remain in the neighbourhood of Fairplains, where she and her father -had been so supremely happy; with strangers occupying their rooms, -riding their ponies, playing on this very tennis ground,--no, never! -And then all the talk and commiseration, although so kindly meant, -would drive her crazy! There was a loop-hole of escape overlooked by -Mrs. Ffinch. She would go down to her old nurse, Jane Simpson, at -Coimbatore, and start to-morrow night, leaving two letters, one for -Captain Mayne, and one for Finchie. Finchie would be furious; she could -almost see her face, after she had read and digested her leave-taking -epistle! But, after all, she must live her own life, such as it was; -and go her own way. What she did, or where she went, was of little -matter to anyone. Nurse Jane would not worry her with plans, and -questions--she understood; she always did; and later on, when she felt -stronger, not so queer, and dazed, and the monsoon was over, she would -go home--that is to say, to England. - -As Nancy made up her mind to this plan, she beheld Togo coming slowly -down the steps, and looking about cautiously. Catching sight of the -object of his quest, he flew to her side. - -"So you were afraid we were _all_ gone, dear, were you?" and she lifted -him,--a heavy armful,--sat down, and placed him on the bench beside -her. Togo endeavoured to make frantic demonstrations of affection,--but -was firmly restrained. His mistress held him fast with her arm round -his neck, and there the two sat, and gazed on the moon-flooded -plains,--an exquisite scene in silver. It all looked so still, so calm, -and in a word, so heavenly. "Oh, Togo," she murmured. "The world is the -same, but everything in it, is changed for you--and me." - -Suddenly something in Nancy's throat seemed to give way, and she -buried her face in Togo's woolly neck; the ice had melted, and for -the first time, she wept,--but not for long. In a surprisingly short -time, she choked back her sobs--and with a supreme effort recovered -her composure, restrained her streaming tears, as she had done Togo's -caresses,--and administering a kiss in the middle of his forehead, rose -and returned to the bungalow,--stealing into her own quarters almost -like a thief. - -Manœuvring among the shadows, she had caught a glimpse of Mrs. Hicks -and Captain Mayne smoking together on the verandah. What good friends -they seemed to be! In her room she found awaiting her, a dainty -little meal (now cold), and offered it to Togo. As a rule the dog -had a healthy and unfastidious appetite, but to-night, he merely -sniffed at the plate, and turned sorrowfully away. To avoid a scene of -recrimination, and remonstrance, Nancy gulped down some cold soup, and -ordered the ayah to remove the tray, "quick, quick, quick," and when -Mrs. Hicks had gone to bed, to send Francis to speak to her. - -Sounds in the still hill regions carry far, and the Clouds Rest "gurra" -would be heard striking ten faint strokes, when Francis appeared in the -doorway. Salaaming with grave dignity, he awaited Nancy's commands. - -"Francis," she said, "you have known me as a baba, and have always been -good to me." - -"No, no," he protested, "Missy good to me." - -"Yes, you have," she contradicted flatly, "and you know it, -Francis--and I want you to help me now." - -"Whatever the Missy says, that I do," and once more he salaamed with -both hands. - -"Well, I want you to do a good deal! You know that I was married by the -Padre Sahib, because my father wished it, and I was thankful to please -him, but it is not a good marriage; and I do not intend to leave here -with the Captain Sahib on Wednesday, but will go down to Nurse Jane at -Coimbatore instead--and you must manage it." - -"Nurse Jane, Missy," he repeated, "but for why? That very, awfully -foolish business. The Captain Sahib very nice gentleman. Master like -him,--everyone too much like him." - -"And I," pointing to herself, "do _not_ like him! Francis, can you -understand?" and she gazed at him steadily. - -Francis made no answer, but looked down, and gravely contemplated his -flexible brown toes. - -"Listen to me," she continued, "to-morrow night, I am leaving -Fairplains; you will get a bandy, and coolies, for the luggage, and the -ayah; also I am taking Togo. If I return to England, he shall be in -your keeping. At present, he and I, comfort one another. I will ride -the grey pony down the ghât, and Tumbie syce can attend, and bring him -back. Later, all my belongings are to be sent to Coimbatore. Do you -bring them yourself. I shall have much to say to you--to-night it -hurts me to talk." - -"May I speak one word, Missy? Now you are married to this gentleman -Captain,--suppose you run away, he making plenty bobbery; he not -swearing or calling names, that gentleman I know. All the same, I think -he is strong,--and there will be much trouble." - -"It will be all right, Francis; you need not be afraid. I shall give -you a letter for him, and he will be _glad_ to let me go,--and never -see me again." - -Francis made a noise like "tch, tch, tch." "Oh, Missy, already have we -got too much sorrow--will you thrust more upon us--and yourself----?" - -"More--sorrow--we could not have," declared his reckless young -mistress. "Now for my plans," she continued. - -"I want you to send a coolie with a telegram to prepare Nurse Jane. I -shall remain in this room to-morrow; sick--and I _am_ sick--and I wish -I was dead! At night, when all is still, I intend to ride away down to -the railway station. Francis, it is for you to make all the bandobast. -I know you will help me. Good-night," and he was dismissed. - -By the first streak of dawn, the next morning, Nancy crept out to -visit, for the last time, the newest grave. She was so early that no -one beheld her, but the birds, and Togo. - -During the long hours when Mrs. Hicks was busily engaged in counting -glass, china, and cooking pots (for the inventory), or reposing on her -beloved bed, Nancy and her ayah were occupied in making final, but -secret arrangements. When these were completed, Nancy sat down and -wrote two letters. The first was to Mrs. Ffinch,--and began: - - DEAR KIND FINCHIE, - - This is to say, that I am going my own way. Please do not be vexed. - You will hear of me at my nurse's in Coimbatore. I feel somehow - that I want her, as when I was a small kid, and had had a bad fall; - later, I hope to go to England; for much as I adore the hills, I - cannot endure them just now. Give my love to all my friends, and - please _do_ understand, that I am most grateful to you for your - kind offer, to have me with you at Clouds Rest,--and forgive, - - Your loving, - NANCY. - -Having completed and addressed this, she sat for a long time with -a sheet of note-paper before her, resting her head upon her hand, -nibbling the penholder, and making up her mind how to frame a letter to -Captain Mayne. At last she began, and wrote--rapidly, almost without a -pause: - - DEAR CAPTAIN MAYNE, - - Before you read this, I shall have left Fairplains. I have been - thinking hard the last two days, and am quite sure, that it is best - for us to part _now_,--and never to meet again. Let us forget the - dreadful ceremony of last Friday. You know, that we agreed to it, - only to satisfy my dear father,--at least that was _my_ - intention,--so that he might be at ease in his mind, before he left - me. On this point, our aim was accomplished; and there let the - matter _end_. I feel certain, that you have no true wish, that I - should live with you--'until death us do part.' Far from it. I am - just a little hill girl, and not the least one of your sort. For my - own part, the mere sight of you brings before me that horrible - struggle with the panther, when Daddy interposed, and saved you. I - _know_ you are honourable, and a man of your word, and wish to give - me--as payment--a home and your name; but I cannot accept one or - other, for--to be honest--I shall _never_ like you again, and if - I were forced to live with you, I should loathe you. - - It seems dreadful to write this down in black and white, but it is - the truth; and surely the truth is best? I am so absolutely - miserable that I wish I was dead: I could easily kill myself with - an overdose of chlorodyne--we keep a large store on account of the - coolies--and I would be buried in the garden beside _them_, and be - no further trouble to anyone; but Daddy always said, 'Suicide was - a coward's act,' and I shall struggle on somehow. Mrs. Ffinch, who, - as you know, is immensely clever, had a long talk with me yesterday. - She pointed out that you and I were entirely unsuited; that apart - from the circumstances, we would have been almost the last people - in the world to think of marrying one another; that you had told - her the idea of marriage had never entered your mind, and it would - be the _ruin_ of your career. This can easily be prevented. No one, - except the Hicks and Teddy Dawson, knows of the ceremony. The - parson is about to settle in Tasmania;--they will _all_ be dumb. - Here in India, people so frequently separate, scatter, and forget - that they had ever met. I shall do my utmost to forget you, and I - hope you will let me drop out of your thoughts as completely as if - you had never seen me; and should we meet--which I trust is - unlikely--let it be as strangers. Do not be at all concerned about - my future. I have sufficient money to pay for my passage, I have - friends at home, and if the worst come to the worst, I can be a - lady's help, or governess. At any rate, I shall be independent. I - hope you will not think, that in taking this step, I am also - breaking my promise to father. You know, that his _one_ idea, as he - lay dying, was for my happiness; and I shall be far happier--if - I ever can be happy again--to feel, that I am free--also that you - are free. I believe, that if I had followed my first intention of - keeping to the letter of our contract, and accompanied you down to - Cananore, we should have been the two most miserable people in the - whole world. - - Believe me, - Yours faithfully, - NANCY TRAVERS. - -This was a much longer and fuller epistle than Nancy had intended to -send; but she was determined to make everything absolutely plain. -Possibly it was a stupid letter, and no doubt she had repeated herself -several times; also it was brusque, and rude. It might make Captain -Mayne dislike her extremely. In that case; so much the _better_! If -Mrs. Ffinch had written such a letter, how well it would have been -expressed; how beautifully she would have taken off the raw edges, and -made it almost a pleasure to read! Well, there it was; she would not -look at it again, in case she might alter something, so she thrust it -into an envelope, sealed it, and laid it beside her other despatch. - -Mrs. Hicks was only too sympathetic with Nancy's severe headache. She -paid several visits, imparting remedies, and outside intelligence. -Captain Mayne had not yet returned from his round of farewell calls, -but all his baggage had been packed by his "boy," everything was ready -for a start the next afternoon, and he had ordered up a pair-horse -tonga, for the use of the ayah, and herself. - -"I shall remain here to see you off, Nancy, my dear," she announced, -"and I've got hold of an old shoe that I intend to throw after you!" - -"Dear Mrs. Hicks, you are always so kind," said the girl, "and I'll -never forget what you have been to me, during this last awful week." - -Afterwards Mrs. Hicks remembered, that in Nancy's kiss there was -something soft and lingering--something in the nature of a farewell. - -Nancy, having taken an emotional leave of Francis, handed him two -letters to be immediately delivered, and prepared to depart at twelve -o'clock that night. Under the auspices of a high full moon, she rode -away from Fairplains, accompanied by Togo, and followed by her syce. -The domestic servants were aware of her impending departure,--for is -not everything known in the cookhouse, and go-down? When she came up -the drive, they were all, so to speak, paraded--standing in one long -line, to see the last of their little Missy. As she passed, she nodded -to each individually, and when she had reached the corner, where the -private track joined the great cart road, turned in her saddle, to look -back on her home, and to wave a valediction to the crowd. - - - - - CHAPTER XIII - - IN BLACK AND WHITE - - -Mayne, an early riser, was generally the first to appear at chotah -hazri; and when, with an impressive gesture, Francis laid Nancy's -letter on the table beside him, he instantly recognized the writing, -and felt a premonition that there was something in the wind! With -admirably concealed impatience, he waited until the servant had -retired, to open this, the first communication from his wife. He read -it standing; then he sat down with a sudden plunge, and went slowly -over it again, whilst a curious, rather grim expression stole across -his face. Nancy's strange attitude was here most fully, and frankly -explained. Her look of cold dislike, her frigid silence, and pointed -avoidance, were amply accounted for, by the fact that she hated the -man, whom in her heart she accused of being the cause of her father's -death. Her love for _him_, was so absolute and overwhelming, that it -had changed her kindly liking for Mayne, into horror, and detestation, -and she spurned what she termed his "payment." The information was -before his eyes in clear black and white--the girl wrote a good, -legible hand--she had shot her bolt and fled. So after all his anxious -heart-searchings, stifled reluctance, and sincere good-will, Nancy had -deserted him, and gone her own way, to live her own life! - -His feelings were an extraordinary mixture; various and unusual -sensations, in turn swept over him; anger, humiliation, -astonishment--then finally, relief. It was a relief, to be free -from the desperate embarrassment of being married to a girl, a mere -playfellow, with whom he had never exchanged a word of love, nor for -whom he had ever felt the smallest touch of passion; yet on the -other hand, Nancy was his legal wife, and--in spite of her ignorant -confidence, and offer of release--to the best of his belief, it was -impossible to sever the bond between them. Also, he was in the position -of being sole executor of her father's will, and scanty personal estate. - -The actual fact of the marriage was known to few. He could now -rejoin his regiment as a bachelor; and the distasteful vision, of -presenting himself at Cananore, in company with a stony-faced, abjectly -miserable bride, faded away into the background. He would still -continue to live at the Mess, and if later, there were any awkward -developments--"sufficient unto the day was the evil thereof!" - -Mayne paused in his tramp to and fro, and was about to pour himself out -a cup of tea, when he beheld the shiny, copper-coloured face of Teddy -Dawson, appearing above the steps. - -"So I hear you are off this afternoon," he began, "and I have just -looked in to know if I can do anything to help? I was the first to -welcome you, and I should like to be the last to speed you, from this -part of the world." - -"You have come at an opportune moment," said Mayne, holding out his -hand; "the very fellow I particularly want to see. But first let me get -you a cup of tea." - -"All right, I don't mind," said Ted, tossing down his battered topee, -and taking a seat at the table. "How is Nancy?" - -"Nancy has gone." - -"Gone! What the Dickens do you mean?--Nancy gone! Gone where?" - -"As you were at the marriage, and are altogether behind the scenes, -also my first friend here,--I think I may show you her letter," said -Mayne, and he handed it across to his gaping _vis-à-vis_. - -Dawson read it with irritating deliberation; going back over sentences, -and frowning heavily as he did so. When he came to the end, he looked -up and said: - -"Nancy was always a queer child, and you will have to let her alone. -You couldn't well follow her, and drag her back--could you?" - -"I shall not move a finger," said Mayne, with deliberate emphasis. - -"It's just like one of her tempers; she'll cool down all right." - -"And where do I come in?" inquired Mayne. "She has made a pretty good -fool of _me_!" - -"Oh, you'll forgive her some day, for you're a real white man! I'm -awfully fond of Nan; she is clean, through and through--couldn't lie if -she tried; knows nothing whatever of love; or what's called 'sex,' and -that sort of thing. Her heart and soul were given to her Daddy; and now -that he is gone, the poor child feels that her life is smashed to bits." - -"That's true," assented Mayne, "and I can understand her grief. I have -made every allowance, and never intruded on her for a moment. I have -not laid eyes on Nancy since the funeral; she has remained shut up in -her own room. This," holding up the note, "is the first sign that she -has recognized my existence, and it gives me my dismissal, or 'jawaub.'" - -"Well, well," resumed Dawson, after an expressive pause (during which -he disposed of a large cup of tea), "it's rather a facer, I'll allow. I -believe I can trace the delicate hand of Mrs. Ffinch in it--she always -has a finger in every one's pie--and hitherto she has looked upon Nancy -as her own particular property. By the way, have you made any fresh -plans?" - -"Yes. I leave early this afternoon. Nancy's baggage will, of course, -remain, and as not a word of this business is known to anyone, bar the -Hicks, Mrs. Ffinch, and yourself, I shall rejoin my regiment, as if -nothing had happened." - -"And keep up the delusion?" said Ted, opening his large blue eyes; -"that won't be easy." - -"Why not? I don't intend to follow, or to trace Nancy: she can go her -own way. Money affairs, I'll arrange with you. I shall make her an -allowance, paid half-yearly to your bankers. Who are they?" - -"Grindlay and Co., but you may spare yourself the trouble, for Nancy -won't accept a penny--if _I_ know her." - -"I shall lodge it all the same," said Mayne, looking obstinate. "Two -hundred and fifty pounds a year. I won't have her governessing, or any -of that nonsense. The inventory here has been seen to by Mrs. Hicks, -and the station-writer; I have wound up a few business matters, paid -off the servants, and, excepting a couple of yearly cheques, I shall -have no more to say to--Mrs. Mayne!" - -"Is that so?" - -"Certainly; it is Nancy who has left me,--and, as the natives say, 'one -hand cannot clap.'" - -"I must confess, I don't wonder you feel a bit hurt." - -"Hurt!" repeated Mayne, with an angry laugh. - -"I've a good idea where Nancy is. She has gone down to her old nurse in -Coimbatore; an excellent woman, who married a chap in the Telegraphs. -Nance could not be better fixed up, for the present; the girl feels -like a mortally wounded animal, that wants to hide from its own sort. -It would have been a terrible ordeal for a child like Nancy, with her -hurt, so to speak, _raw_, to find herself launched amongst complete -strangers, with no one to hold on to, but a fellow she had known for a -few weeks. One of my coolies told me, that last night he had seen the -ghost of a woman on a white horse riding down the ghât road. Of course, -that was Nancy, making for the railway station." - -"I'm fairly broad-minded," said Mayne, "and I can see the matter from -your point of view; naturally, you hold a brief for Nancy. I remember -the first time we met, you told me she was the apple of your eye!" - -"Aye. And what queer things have happened, since we overtook you that -day on your way here. Now I wonder, if I had turned you back, would it -have made any difference?" - -"No--I believe it was 'Kismet.' I wish to goodness, Kismet had left me -alone. However, I shall give the girl a wide berth,--and her freedom." - -"Oh, will you?" Dawson's tone implied doubt. - -"Yes, I shall hold my tongue; none of my brother officers would dream -of my having got married up on a coffee estate. Later, it may be a -bit awkward. You see I am my uncle's heir." He paused for a moment, -and fumbled with his tobacco pouch,--which, all unconscious, he was -holding upside down. "However, I'll manage somehow--even if there _are_ -complications." - -"And how about Nancy? When she has recovered from this blow, has gone -to England and grown up, how will it be, if she comes across a fellow -she takes to? If ever she falls in love, it will be the devil of a -business. A case of all--or nothing. What will happen then, eh?" - -"There's no good in looking so far ahead," declared Mayne, preparing -to light his pipe. "Why meet trouble half way--one of us may die----" - -"Who is talking of dying?" inquired Mrs. Hicks, suddenly launching -herself into the verandah. "Boys, I've overslept myself most -disgracefully! and I'm shockingly late; but I always _was_ a -lazybones,--and fond of my little bed. I've not even been in to see -Nancy yet." - -When it had been carefully explained to her, that there was no Nancy to -see, her fat, florid face was a study. - -"Well, this _is_ a nice how-do-you-do!" she exclaimed. "If I hadn't -been an old silly, I might have had my suspicions, from her being so -quiet. Well, well, well! Fancy her running away! I didn't think she 'ad -it in her." - -"Oh, there's a lot in Nancy," declared her champion. - -"She kissed me something extra last night," resumed Mrs. Hicks, "and I -suppose it was for _good-bye_. Lors! what will people say!" - -"Nothing," replied Mayne emphatically. "They don't know anything about -_me_, and they will think it only natural that she should--as Dawson -suspects--have gone to her old nurse." - -"And so it's--you know what I mean--to be a dead letter, and hushed up?" - -"Yes." - -Mrs. Hicks gave a shrill, unladylike whistle. - -"Well, I declare! All the servants are 'in the know,'--but that doesn't -count; folks don't ever believe 'bazaar' talk, and of course Hicks and -I will 'old our tongues--you bet." - -"That will be very kind of you, Mrs. Hicks--but----" - -"But," nodding her head expressively, "if either of you go and marry -other people, it will be bigamy, eh?" - -"I suppose so," replied Mayne. "There is one thing positively certain." - -"What's that?" - -"That I have been married for the first, and last, time." - -"Well, there's no saying; queer things 'appen. I'm sure this day week, -you never dreamt you'd be a married man to-day; and you and Nancy are -married, just as tight as 'Icks and me. You've got the certificate?" - -"I have, and I do not intend to shirk all my responsibilities. I shall -make Nancy an allowance; but I'll never see her again." - -"Many's the woman that will be thankful to be married on _those_ -terms," chuckled Mrs. Hicks, now lighting up. - -The good lady was enjoying a thorough holiday, and being as free and -easy, and talkative as she pleased; far removed from the irritating -criticisms of her daughters. She and her would-be son-in-law were pals! -It was Jessie, influenced by Mrs. Ffinch--and Dr. Hicks--ambitious for -his daughter--who were the real obstacles to the alliance. - -"I'll run down to Coimbatore," she announced, "and see the child. Hicks -doesn't like the look of her, and I'll just tell her what I think of -her, for giving me the slip, the sly little toad! I suppose you don't -send her no message?" suddenly turning to Mayne. - -"Well, yes, perhaps I'd better. I'll go and write a line now, no time -like the present," and he rose and went towards the den. - -Mrs. Hicks' eyes followed him steadily. Then she burst out: - -"Nancy has been a fool!--fine, upstanding young fellows like him aren't -to be found on every coffee-bush, that I can tell you." - -"Maybe it'll come all right yet," said Dawson soothingly. - -"Maybe not. She has given him a nasty whack, and I think myself he has -a pride. My old boy will fetch me to-day, and everything here is now -settled, and cleared up, and the Travers' belongings are packed and -ready for the road. I believe the new acting-manager comes to-morrow. -My, what a change!" she added gloomily; "and all in one little week." - -"Yes, and somehow I can't realize it," said Dawson. "As I sit here, -I half expect to see Travers riding up from the Factory on his brown -pony, and Nancy flying along this verandah, like a gale of wind." - -"Aye, that's true," assented Mrs. Hicks, and she heaved a great sigh; -"we have all had good times here, and the Travers' can never be -replaced," and again she sighed heavily. - -Meanwhile Mayne was writing rapidly on the estate note-paper: - - DEAR NANCY, - - I have received your letter, and accept the situation, all shall - be as you wish. I am sorry to find that you dislike me so - inveterately, and decline what you describe as 'Payment'--but it - cannot be helped. Let me assure you, that I have no intention of - coming into your life, and the marriage, as far as I am concerned, - shall be as though it had never taken place. I have arranged to - make you a yearly allowance (£250) which will be paid to our - mutual friend, Ted Dawson. The estate and personal affairs have - been satisfactorily settled. - - Yours faithfully, - DEREK DANVERS MAYNE. - -When he handed this note to Mrs. Hicks, she turned it over, looked at -the superscription, and remarked: - -"I see you've addressed it to 'Miss Travers.'" - -"Well, why not?" he protested; "I feel sure Nancy would not have opened -it, had it been addressed to 'Mrs. Mayne.'" - - * * * * * - -Early that same afternoon Mayne rode down the ghât,--in what a -different frame of mind, to the blithe expectations with which he had -gaily ascended the same road! Near the foot of the hills he encountered -a syce, who salaamed to him profoundly! Could there be anything -ironical in that salute? The man was leading a remarkably hot grey -pony; the pony was carrying a side-saddle.--An episode was closed. - - - - - CHAPTER XIV - - "NANCY SITS WITH SORROW" - - -Nancy, the ayah, Togo and the luggage, arrived at Coimbatore station -without any incident, much less a half-expected "hue and cry." Here -Mrs. Simpson awaited them with her roomy bullock cart, drawn by a pair -of huge Nellore bullocks, and carried the little party to her large and -comfortable bungalow on the outskirts of the town. She was delighted -to welcome her nursling,--to whom she had always been devoted.--She -made her eat, and insisted upon putting her to bed, and treating her -precisely as if she were still a small child! - -When Nancy was at rest, in her spacious white cot, Jane Simpson sat by -her side, and listened with tearful sympathy to details of the illness -and death of her former master; for all this, she had been prepared, -but the unexpected news of Nancy's marriage, reduced her to a condition -of stunned, and horrified silence. - -Jane Simpson was by nature excessively prim, a little narrow-minded, -strictly conventional, but a most worthy person. Her house, her -person, and especially her hands, were beautifully kept. When she had -deposited Nancy at school in Eastbourne, she subsequently turned her -attention to professional nursing, and after several years' experience, -had attracted the attention of one of her patients, married him, and -returned to India,--a country she abused for its slack unpractical -ways, but nevertheless liked it all the same. Bob Simpson's pay was -liberal, and although they had no family, Jane was a very busy and -contented woman. - -From her point of view, everything should be foreseen, cut and -dried, punctual to a second, and absolutely proper and correct. This -sudden marriage of her little girl to an acquaintance no better than -a stranger, figuratively swept her off her feet! However, like a -prudent woman, she _said_ little. Nancy was looking desperately ill, -a different creature from the buoyant Nancy of Fairplains: so silent, -haggard, and lifeless. What further information Mrs. Simpson required -was eagerly supplied by the ayah, who though not actually present, -had witnessed the marriage ceremony in the drawing-room,--through an -obliging crack in the door. - -"Mayne Sahib and the Missy, standing before the Padre, both looking -_too_ sorry. Mayne, he very nice gentleman. His butler telling, a -good sahib, and no evil liver,--everyone liking. He money got, too. -Yesterday giving me twenty rupees," and the ayah's black eyes glistened -greedily. - -"Do you think he will come down here after Miss Nancy?" anxiously -inquired Mrs. Simpson. - -"How I telling, Memsahib?" throwing up her small brown hands, "but -for what good? My Missy plenty sick, soon, soon, very sick--and maybe -die.--Ah ye yoh!" and she wrung her hands. - -Part of this augury came true. The dreaded reaction set in, Nancy had -a bad attack of fever, and was seriously ill. She was lucky to find -herself in Jane Simpson's care, and with the help of a good doctor, -and the best of nursing, at the end of three weeks, she had recovered; -but rose from her bed a shattered wreck, wasted to a shadow, with a -small wan white face, from which all trace of sunburn and tan had now -completely disappeared. - -During the fever, Mrs. Simpson kept all visitors steadily at bay. -Training as a professional nurse, had invested her with an inflexible -attitude, and even Mrs. Ffinch, who had motored down on two occasions, -could not succeed in interviewing the invalid; but when Nancy was -convalescent, the position was stormed. - -Mrs. Ffinch brought her neighbour, Mrs. Hicks, with her in the car, -and during most of the journey, the two ladies wrangled, for they held -diametrically opposite views with respect to the protégée they were -about to visit. Mrs. Hicks declared "that it would be a great pity -there should be a complete breach between Nancy and Captain Mayne." She -was sentimental, and soft-hearted in her way,--fond of the girl, and -well disposed towards the man. - -"By and by, if they're _let alone_, believe you me, they'll make -friends! After all, Mayne is a fairly good match. I am told he has five -hundred a year, and expectations from an uncle." - -"Yes," broke in Mrs. Ffinch, who was not soft-hearted, and whose -own love affair had been strangled. "You can imagine the uncle's -delight--_I_ know the old man--when he hears that his nephew and heir, -has picked up a little nobody off an Indian coffee estate!" - -"I don't think that's a very nice, or kind, way to speak of Nancy," -gobbled Mrs. Hicks, swelling with indignation. - -"My dear, good Mrs. Hicks, don't be angry; it's not _my_ idea, I do -assure you; only one that would undoubtedly present itself to this rich -old man! I propose to shelter Nancy under my own wing. I shall be going -home next spring, and as soon as she has recovered from her grief, I -shall take her about, and give her a good time--and----" - -"And marry her off," broke in Mrs. Hicks, with challenging insolence. -"Match-making with you is just a play; all excitement and amusement. -However, you can't marry Nancy, for you know as well as I do, she has a -husband already!" - -"Nothing of the sort," rejoined the other, "any claim that Captain -Mayne would put forward could easily be refuted. He won't do it though, -and I suppose if he chose, he could sue Nancy for desertion." - -Argument waxed fast and furious, and Mrs. Ffinch had much the best of -the conflict. She kept her temper admirably, whilst her opponent was -in a red-hot towering rage. On such occasions she completely cast all -fear, and awe of the "Dictator," to the winds, and told her various, -plain, and unpleasant truths. On the present occasion, she said: - -"You know very well, that if _you_ had been here and had a hand in this -marriage of Nancy's, you would have _made_ her stick to it through -thick and thin--but as it was all got up in a hurry, and, so to speak, -behind your back, you'll do all you can to smash it!" - -Mrs. Ffinch's reply was an icy and dignified silence. The proper and -suitable punishment for her companion would have been to open the door -of the car, request her to descend, and allow her to walk the remainder -of the distance down to Coimbatore. - -For a long time, neither matron spoke; and the motor skimmed rapidly -down the winding road, passing many familiar land-marks. The cold fit -was now on Mrs. Hicks. She had let herself go, and said too much, and -there wasn't the smallest doubt that her companion--from what she knew -of her--would hold a truce for the present, but in some way or another -"have it in for her" on a future occasion! - -As they sped along the flat plains, in the direction of Coimbatore, -Mrs. Ffinch broke the silence. - -"I propose to take Nancy back with me this evening; her room is ready, -and most of her mourning has been finished, so, dear Mrs. Hicks, on -our return journey, I'm sure you won't mind sitting in front with the -chauffeur, and I will take the poor child in beside me." - -In her own opinion she was carrying out the part of a benevolent -friend--she was saving Nancy from a loveless union, and the misery of -being dragged round the world, by a man who did not want her. - -The two well-meaning visitors were greatly shocked when they beheld -their young protégée. She looked so dull, and vacant, almost like -another creature! Her attitude resembled that of a wounded creature, -cowering, and withdrawing, from those who wished to do her good. She -resisted all Mrs. Ffinch's importunities and persuasions to accompany -her to Clouds Rest. This, was the one subject on which the girl seemed -to have a fixed opinion; nothing would induce her to return to the -hills. Otherwise, whether she was to remain at Coimbatore, or go to -England, to live, or to die,--was apparently a matter of complete -indifference. - -Whilst Mrs. Ffinch was holding a whispered conference with Jane -Simpson, Mrs. Hicks seized the opportunity to give Nancy the note from -Mayne. The girl turned it over listlessly. - -"It is his answer to yours," explained Mrs. Hicks. "He wrote it right -away, and gave it to me. I thought it better to wait until I could -bring it down myself." - -"I suppose so, thank you," she said as she opened it, glanced over it, -and then tore it into four pieces. "_That's_ done," she said, looking -at Mrs. Hicks, with unexpected animation. - -"Well, I'm not so sure!" rejoined the matron, "and I'm not of the same -mind as Mrs. Ffinch. We quarrelled about the business the whole way -down. Indeed, I think myself, she had half a mind to put me out on the -side of the road! I'm afraid I let my temper get the better of me, and -said lots of things I'm sorry for now. I expect Mrs. Ffinch is bitterly -disappointed that you won't go back with her, Nancy. I shouldn't be -surprised if she carried her point yet, and you know we'd all be only -too glad to have you among us. Hush! here she comes!" - -As the time passed, Nancy's grief and misery, instead of abating seemed -to increase. She was no longer an invalid, but helped Nurse Jane about -the house, knitted, sewed, and walked out daily. Her attitude was one -of an unnatural passivity. Grief had burnt into her very soul, and -her inner being was absorbed with one obsession: the memory of her -father. Apparently his image filled her thoughts to the exclusion of -all else. This much, Nurse Jane gathered, during their infrequent -conversations--for Nancy now was almost dumb. As for Mayne, the girl -appeared to have forgotten his existence! She was completely prostrated -by the loss of her parent, and gradually sinking into an apathetic -condition of mind and body, from which at all cost, she must be -redeemed. - -As Bob Simpson's cheery good humour, and Jane's authoritative efforts, -had not the smallest effect upon this white-faced silent inmate, Mrs. -Ffinch and Mrs. Hicks and Ted Dawson were summoned,--and held, so to -speak, a committee upon the case. They decided that the girl must have -a complete change, otherwise, it would be impossible for her to regain -her normal balance! Mrs. Ffinch relinquished her efforts to induce -Nancy to live with her, had obtained her aunt's address, and sent her -one of her most diplomatic letters--to which there had been a cool, but -polite reply. - -Mrs. Jenkins had also written to her niece, offering to receive her, -and to give her an asylum until she could make other arrangements. -Nancy, who had been two months at Coimbatore, was a wan, hollow-eyed -spectre of herself: it was evident, that in her present environment -she would never recover her mental poise. In the day-time she sat -and walked, and talked like some dull automatic figure--entirely -indifferent to her surroundings. As Mrs. Ffinch gravely considered -her--she mentally concluded that, "that way madness lies!" and -Mrs. Simpson's friends, who had known the gay and happy Miss Nancy -Travers, assured one another, there was no doubt at all, but that the -broken-hearted girl was either dying, or going out of her mind! - -"She must be sent away at _once_!" such was Mrs. Ffinch's mandate, -after a protracted interview with Nurse Jane. "There is her aunt's -invitation--she has the money for her passage, her mourning is ready, -and, as it happens, most providentially, Mrs. Sandilands is going home -by the _Patna_. They can travel together. I shall wire to Cook, make -all arrangements, secure a separate cabin for Nancy, and this day week, -she will find herself at sea!" - - - - - CHAPTER XV - - A FRIEND IN NEED - - -Thanks to Mrs. Ffinch's promise and her prompt exertions, within a -week's time Nancy found herself in the Madras roads, on board the P. -& O. steamer _Patna_, bound for London. The _Patna_ was a full boat, -carrying a mixed multitude of cheerful passengers. Among these was -Blanche Sandilands (née Meach), a remarkably pretty woman in exuberant -spirits,--embarking on her first trip to England in the character of -a rich, popular, much admired young matron. Her cabin was crammed -with flowers and books, friends to bid her good-bye were assembled in -flattering numbers, and among these, she anxiously looked about for her -charge. - -Yes, there was that invaluable Mrs. Ffinch,--and could it be Nancy -Travers? Nancy, so altered as to be almost unrecognizable. The bright -school-girl, she remembered, as just out from England, brimming over -with happiness, and gaiety, was now a wan white creature in deep -mourning, with sad abstracted eyes. Thank goodness, they were not -sharing the same cabin, or she would certainly be flooded out with -tears! What, she asked herself, could she do with her? Mrs. Sandilands -had been looking forward to such a ripping time on the voyage: the -Bruffs, and the Colvilles, Captain Yates and Mr. Orme, were on board, -but there would not be much fun for _her_, if all day long she was tied -to such a wet blanket as this poor child--who appeared to be actually -stupefied with grief. - -To her immense relief, the lively lady soon discovered that Nancy -Travers would be no encumbrance. It was true that she sat beside her at -meals (nobly representing the traditional death's head), but otherwise -effaced herself, seeming to prefer solitude, and her own company, -sitting aloof with a book, or disappearing for hours into her nook of a -cabin in the stern. - -Mrs. Sandilands lent her novels, offered her chocolates, and little -toilet luxuries, kissed her perfunctorily night and morning, and -left her to herself,--assuring her friends, that such was the truest -kindness, and went her own light-hearted way to play deck games, and -Bridge; or to embark on such amusing and harmless flirtations, as are -expected of the prettiest woman on the ship. - -At Colombo the passengers went bodily ashore, and enjoyed the few gay -hours at the Galle Face Hotel, explored the bazaars, or darted off in -rickshaws to inspect the Cinnamon gardens. With their return at dinner -time, they brought a horde of new comers,--tourists, planters, and -their belongings. - -Among the crowd, one figure was conspicuously prominent, and proceeded -at once to dominate the ship. - -"Yet after all, what was Mrs. De Wolfe?" asked a girl plaintively, "but -an ugly, rude, old woman?" - -The lady appeared to know several of the passengers, and to be a sea -friend of the captain's; for a special place had been reserved at his -table, also she enjoyed a large double cabin, and was attended by a -hard-featured, but dignified maid. - -In appearance, Mrs. De Wolfe looked formidable enough! Tall and bony, -with a long, wrinkled face, a commanding hooked nose (a family feature -descending through generations), sharp black eyes, heavily marked -brows, and a tightly closed mouth, which, when open, displayed two -gleaming rows of expensively fitted teeth. Her hands exhibited knotted -veins, and surprisingly large knuckles, but the lady's most distinctive -endowment was a far-reaching, masculine voice. Her style of dress was -tailor-made, and suitable, her only jewellery, a thin wedding ring. - -What was her claim to the almost subservient homage which she received? -She was suffered to break into the most interesting conversation; her -remarks were listened to with profound respect, and she was waited on -with slavish assiduity. Perhaps the answer was, that the old lady had -influence, a strong personality, a sharp tongue, and great possessions. -She was a masterful, independent individual, who did what she liked, -went where she fancied, and said what she pleased! Nancy shrank from -her instinctively, and when on deck, kept well out of her orbit, and -beyond the range of those piercing eyes. - -One evening, as she sat pretending to read, she was startled by a deep -voice speaking over her shoulder. It said: - -"What's the matter with you? Why don't you go and play about? You look -like a sick chicken!" - -As Nancy gazed straight up into the old wrinkled face, her lips -twitched, but she made no reply. Mrs. De Wolfe, who evidently expected -an answer, waited for a moment, still staring fixedly. It was something -like the children's game of "Who will laugh first?" Then with an -indignant "Humph!" she moved away. - -The _Patna_, four days out from Colombo, had experienced fairly -fine weather, and real tropical heat. Nancy slept in the top berth -of her tiny cubby hole, with the port wide open, and was dreaming -a delightful dream, when it suddenly turned to a sense of horrible -reality and _drowning_. She was roused by a wandering green wave, -which, having discovered an inviting porthole, flowed in torrents over -her prostrate form, and completely swamped the cabin. As soon as she -had recovered her breath, and the shock, she endeavoured to close the -port. It proved much too stiff. Then she sprang down into the water -on the floor, snatched at her dressing-gown, and opening the door, -screamed for a steward. A man in the next cabin had evidently met -with the same catastrophe, and was in a similar plight. He and Nancy -faced one another in the passage, a dripping, shivering pair! Very -soon a bedroom steward appeared on the scene, there was loud talking, -splashing, mopping. In the midst of this, a door opened, and a gruff -voice demanded: - -"What's all this noise about?" - -Then the face of Mrs. De Wolfe appeared. She wore a large lace-frilled -nightcap, "and looked for all the world," as the young man subsequently -described, "like the wolf in Red Riding Hood." - -"There's been a sea into these two cabins, ma'am," explained the -steward, "and this 'ere lady and gentleman has been washed out!" - -The old woman now came forth, and surveyed them impartially; the smart -clean-shaven man in pink pyjamas, and a blanket; the girl in a blue -dressing-gown, with two long plaits of hair dripping down her back, and -instantly recognized the "Ghost," Nancy's nickname on the boat. - -"You come along in here," she commanded, stretching out her bony hand, -and taking her by the wrist. "Steward, send my maid at once," and the -cabin door closed on the pair--the wolf, and the lamb! - -"You shall have dry things immediately," said Mrs. De Wolfe, "and -Haynes shall make you up a bed on the sofa here." - -"Thank you, ma'am, you are very kind," chattered Nancy, whose teeth -were like a pair of castanets. - -"Take a towel and dry your hair, Haynes will be here in a moment." - -Almost as her mistress spoke, Haynes made her appearance in a trim -red flannel dressing-gown, and took the matter in hand with quiet -promptitude. Nancy soon found herself invested in a beautiful silk and -lace nightgown, which she regarded with unspeakable awe. - -"It's quite all right, chicken," declared the old lady who had returned -to her berth, "I wear plain upper garments, and keep the show for what -I call my 'Undies.' It fits you to a T. Better sleep with the towel -round your head. How on earth do you manage to hide all that hair!" - -"Less talking!" growled a voice from the neighbouring cabin. - -"Haynes, you'll bring two teas at half-past seven," continued Mrs. De -Wolfe, totally unmoved by this command, "and now you may turn out the -light, and go." - -In the ensuing darkness, Nancy was able to reflect at leisure upon -her novel position. She was actually sleeping in the cabin--and -the nightgown--of the woman she most feared and avoided of all the -passengers on board the _Patna_. Yet in spite of her overpowering -personality, she had proved to be a good Samaritan, and not so alarming -after all; consoled by this conviction, Nancy dozed off. - -In the morning, Haynes--a celebrated Treasure--brought Nancy a cup of -delicious "private" tea, and when she had drunk it, and thanked her -hostess for a night's lodging, she slipped on her dressing-gown, and -fled into her own quarters--once more habitable. - -The little episode of the "wash-out" had no immediate results beyond -the exhibition of two mattresses, and several blankets hung out to dry, -and Nancy's acquaintance with Mrs. De Wolfe went no further. She shrank -more and more into solitude and silence, and gave way to the gnawing -misery and loneliness of her heart--plunged in the agony of a terrible -loss, she was left to struggle in it quite alone. - -One morning Mrs. De Wolfe encountered her face to face, at the top -of the companion ladder, nodded brusquely, and stared. The girl's -face subsequently haunted her. Oh, what a picture of real grief,--and -nothing but grief! Impressed by this vision, she proceeded to make -inquiries respecting the solitary young woman in mourning. Mrs. -Sandilands (a notable chatterbox) volubly related the tale of tragedy, -dwelt on Nancy's adoration for her father, their ideally happy life, -his death,--and her altered fortune. - -"Nancy has no one belonging to her, except a disagreeable aunt," she -said, "a half-sister, who has been at daggers drawn with Mr. Travers -for twenty years; however she has offered what she calls 'an asylum' to -the girl, until she can find some job." - -Mrs. De Wolfe nodded and grunted; she also marked, learned and inwardly -digested this information. - -A grand fancy ball was got up on board the _Patna_, in order -to inaugurate her entrance into the Red Sea; the preparations, -arrangements and expedients, afforded almost as much enjoyment as the -dance itself. Such were its attractions, that Mrs. De Wolfe's special -Bridge table was ruthlessly dissolved. One of the keenest players was -appearing as Neptune, another as Mephistopheles, a stout, middle-aged -lady as Ophelia. Mrs. De Wolfe made no change in her plain rich evening -toilet--though more than one malicious tongue had suggested that "she -might get herself up as the Witch of Endor." - -Tired of looking on at the whirling crowd, she went on deck, and -having descried a solitary figure leaning over the side, approached it -stealthily and, so to speak, pounced! - -"No, don't go away, little sick chick!" she said, laying her bony grasp -on Nancy's arm. "Come over here, and talk to me," and Nancy was carried -away a helpless prisoner, to where two deck-chairs happened to be -placed close together. "You're not looking on?" - -Nancy shook her head. - -"No, I'm told you have had great trouble--and I'm very sorry for you." - -"Thank you," said the girl stiffly. - -"Come now, do you think it is right to give way to it like this? -keeping apart from your fellow creatures, and fretting yourself to -death?" - -"I cannot help it." - -"You could, if you tried." - -"Oh, you don't know----" and Nancy caught her breath. - -"Pardon me, I do know! Your chaperone told me all about it. I'm sure if -your father could see you,--and we have no proof otherwise,--it would -hurt him terribly to witness such hopeless, useless, misery." - -"My father was the same himself," declared Nancy, "after my mother -died, and I was sent to England." - -"I know; your friend, Mrs. Sandilands, an exhaustive talker, assured -me, he was so heart-broken, that he allowed his affairs to what is -called 'go to the dogs.' Did he not regret _that_?" - -"Yes, he did--but I have no affairs." - -"You have your life to lead, my dear. Come, do not play the coward, but -brace yourself for the race that is before you." - -"Oh, I can't," she muttered; "if I could only _die_!" - -"What nonsense," protested the old lady, "I've no patience with this -silly sort of talk." - -For a moment there was no answer, and the silence was filled with the -blare of the band, and a rousing Two-step. - -"Because perhaps you don't know what trouble is," murmured Nancy at -last. - -"Don't I? I am not disposed to talk of my private affairs with -strangers--but for once, I will." A harsh tragedy looked out of her -old eyes, as she added: "Listen. You possibly see me a gruff, selfish, -overbearing old woman, with not a thought in the world beyond her -dinner, and a rubber of Bridge. Nevertheless, I have indeed known -anguish--the wounds throb still. My husband left me, when we were young -and happy; my eldest boy was killed at Magersfontein, my youngest, -died of typhoid in India,--all alone; and here am I, all alone,--with -nothing awaiting me but the grave." She paused, for a moment. "Now you -have, I trust, a long useful life, and many happy hours before you. -Why, you cannot be more than eighteen." - -"I was eighteen three months ago." - -"And eighteen wishes to die! Mrs. Sandilands tells me you are going to -live with an aunt in London. May I hear her name?" - -"Yes, it is Mrs. Jenkins. She has a house in Queen's Gate." - -"Strange, I think I've heard of her. She is a widow like myself,--very -comfortably off. Her chief interest in life, is her health, a _malade -imaginaire_. Do you know anything of nursing?" - -"Not much, I am afraid." - -"Well, then, my dear, I am well experienced--and I am going to -prescribe for you. You are to come along with me, and look on at the -ball; and then we will go and have a bit of supper. Yes, I _insist_!" -There was no gainsaying this old lady. - -When Mrs. De Wolfe and her young friend parted that night in their -mutual passage, she said: - -"I intend to take you in hand, Miss Nancy Travers. I shall not allow -you to sit idle in the market-place, eating your heart out. To-morrow -I'll give you some knitting, and teach you to play Piquet and Patience. -You can look upon me as your deputy chaperone." - -As deputy chaperone, she took entire charge of Nancy--who felt -powerless to resist--the girl interested her surprisingly. When she -forgot herself, she could talk, she could sew, she could even smile! -By the time the _Patna_ was in the Canal, Nancy was better. The -sea-air revived her; her new acquaintance acted as a tonic, kept her -incessantly occupied, promenaded the deck with her, told her stories, -gave her sound advice, and from being a mere crumpled heap of hopeless -misery lifted her once more to a foothold in life. - -It had been discovered that the "Ghost," as she was called, was an -excellent pianist, and consequently much in request to accompany song -or violin. This demand brought her into communication with other young -people--which was good for Nancy. - -Mrs. Sandilands was amazed at the acquaintance which had been struck -up between two such incongruous characters as Mrs. De Wolfe, and the -Travers girl. What had they in common? However it came about, the old -woman had effected a wonderful change, and as it were restored the -Ghost to life, and the material world. She now went to and fro and -mixed with other people, and no longer spent hours shut up in her -little cabin. - -When the _Patna_ was in the Channel, Mrs. De Wolfe said to her protégée: - -"Do not forget to give me your address, my dear, and I will come and -see you." - -"That will be very kind." - -"I stay in London occasionally, but my home is in the country,--also in -the wide world--for I travel a great deal. Excuse my plain speaking, -my dear, but have you no income at all? I understand that your father -was a Travers of Lambourne, and I believe they went through every penny -they possessed?" - -"I have twenty pounds a year," replied Nancy, "and I have had a good -education; but I'm afraid I look too young to be a governess. If the -worst comes to the worst, I might go into a shop. I think I'd rather -like that--millinery, or a ladies' outfitting--a sort of place where -there are no men." - -"Are you afraid of them?" - -"Oh no," and she laughed. - -"No love affairs yet, I should imagine," said Mrs. De Wolfe, with -customary bluntness. - -"No love affairs," repeated Nancy, but she coloured vividly. - -"Ah! then there _is_ someone?" remarked her astute questioner. - -"Yes, there was someone; someone I don't like; but it had nothing to do -with a love affair--and I pray that we may never meet again." - -"I'm afraid that will be no use, my dear--we all meet the very people -we don't want to see!" - -"Well, I shall always want to see _you_!" said Nancy impulsively. - -"I'm glad of that, my child, for the number of people who never wish to -see me again, is fairly large. I hate cruelty, and snobbery; I speak -out my mind rather freely, as I tramp through life. Well, my little -chick, I've given you a lift on the road, haven't I?" - -"You have indeed; I can't tell you all you have done for me, roused -me from a stupor, that was creeping over me,--and helped me to make a -fresh start. I can never thank you enough, never!" - -"I don't want thanks. Give me deeds. You must write to me, Nancy. My -bankers, Coutts, will always find me, and if I don't answer, never -mind; I'm a shocking correspondent, my pen never saves my tongue. I'll -come and see you when I pass through Town, and I hope I'll find you -doing well. Be amenable to your father's sister: a rich, self-centred, -elderly woman. Accept hard knocks--they will brace you--later on, -you may find your life in pleasant places. I'd like to take you with -me to Scotland, but I am under orders to visit old friends, who fix -one's date of arrival, train, and room, with a firmness there is no -withstanding, and I dare not be a deserter." - -Nancy's were not the only thanks received by this social missionary. -Pretty Mrs. Sandilands overwhelmed her with effusive gratitude, and -flattering speeches. - -"You took the girl off my hands, dear kindest lady, and have turned her -into a new creature! I cannot imagine how you did it!" - -"A little sympathy, and fellow-feeling, was all that was required." - -Mrs. Sandilands coloured guiltily, and then replied: - -"Nancy is like her father, you see--she takes everything so terribly, -so foolishly, to heart." - -"But what a good thing it is, that she happens to have a heart to take -things to! Such folk are not common objects of the sea or shore in -these days." - -"Perhaps because people don't wear their hearts on their sleeves," -retorted Mrs. Sandilands sharply. At this moment, her companion was -summoned to receive a Marconigram, and she found herself unexpectedly -abandoned with all the honours of the last word! - -Later that same day, the _Patna_ was berthed in the London Docks, and -her horde of passengers scattered afar, every man and woman to their -own; in most cases to forget within a few hours, those who had been -their daily associates for the last four weeks. - - - - - CHAPTER XVI - - AUNT ARABELLA - - -Mrs. Arabella Jenkins (née Travers), a stout little widow of -sixty-four, occupied a large and lugubrious mansion in Queen's -Gate, S.W. She was also the mistress of five thousand a year, eight -servants--not including a permanent "char"--and one dog. Her mother, -a pretty Scotch girl, had been of "no family," according to various -disappointed dowagers--"just someone Charles Travers had picked up -when shooting on a moor, and by no means a suitable châtelaine for -Lambourne." - -However, the poor despised lady reigned but a few short years, and -was succeeded, after a heartless interval, by a dashing damsel of -undeniable birth,--the mother of Laurence Travers, and his two -brothers,--who ably assisted her reckless husband to squander the -remains of a famous estate. - -At nineteen, Arabella Travers was a beauty of the Dresden china type: a -fair, fluffy little creature, with sunny hair and an exquisite pink and -white complexion. Possibly she was shrewd enough to foresee how family -affairs were drifting, for at the age of one and twenty, she accepted a -rich elderly suitor from the City, and exchanged a cheery country life -for a somewhat gloomy establishment in town. - -There had never been much in common between Arabella, her smart -stepmother, and riotous, high-spirited brothers. The Travers boys -laughed at, and mimicked old Sammy Jenkins, and old Sam openly abused -their mad folly, and extravagance, and rarely invited them under his -roof. - -However, he made Arabella an adoring and indulgent husband, spoiled and -petted her most injudiciously, and permitted her to believe, that there -was no one in the whole world as important or as beautiful as herself! -Having entirely uprooted all that was best in her character, he died, -leaving his widow every shilling he possessed,--to the wrathful -indignation of his anticipating kindred. - -A long impending crash promptly followed the death of Charles Travers. -The estate was sold for the benefit of creditors, Mrs. Travers retired -to Bournemouth, and there died within a year. Her three sons scattered -over the world; one went to India, another to Australia, a third -to South Africa. In a short time, the family were extinct, all but -prosperous Arabella, and handsome Laurence,--who, having made a fair -start in coffee, returned home for a few months' holiday. - -As he was a most presentable relative, his stepsister saw a good deal -of him, proudly exhibited him at tea-parties, and dinners, and exerted -herself to find him a suitable--that is to say--a well-dowered wife. In -one direction, she had even made overtures on his behalf, but before -her plans had time to materialize, Laurence returned to the East, and -married a wretched, penniless little governess! If he had been guided -by his wise relative, he could have married a rich, rather plain young -woman, who had been greatly attracted by his personality, and have -enjoyed the easy life of a country gentleman, and revived something of -the Travers prestige; instead of which, there he was, grilling out in -India, grubbing away at a coffee estate. - -Figuratively his sister washed her little fat hands of him; there had -been a brief interchange of disagreeable letters--such as appear to be -the copyright of near relatives--subsequently succeeded by a death-like -silence. - -Mrs. Jenkins ceased to trouble herself further with respect to her -brother--"impossible," she declared, "to help those who refused to -help themselves"--but vague scraps of information had reached her -indirectly. She heard of the birth of a child, the death of his wife, -and his financial collapse. - -Sunken in selfishness, and egoism, Arabella Jenkins had almost -forgotten her brother Laurence, when a twenty years' silence was -broken; a letter written by an unsteady hand, announced his impending -departure from this world, and appealed to a childless woman to give -his little girl a home. Later, she had seen the announcement of -his death in the _Times_.--It had been duly advertised by the ever -thoughtful Mrs. Ffinch. - -So Laurence was gone--and only forty-seven!--and now there was his -orphan. What was she to do about her? As dear Mrs. Taylor truly said, -"at her time of life, and in her state of health, it was monstrous to -suppose, that she should be saddled with an encumbrance." Of course -she must receive the girl for a few weeks, and possibly some of her -many friends, such as Lady Constance Howler, or Mrs. Fitzallen Jones, -might find her a situation. As for being permanently troubled with this -responsibility, the idea was simply too utterly ridiculous. - -The early beauty of Arabella Travers had not lasted--save in the lady's -own opinion. Bright hair and a rose-leaf skin, belong to the days of -one's youth. Mrs. Jenkins was now a stout, short-necked, squat little -body, with a pair of arrogant blue eyes, and an assertive nose. Happy -in the delusion that she did not look a day over thirty, she dressed -the age at great expense, and in the most villainous taste. - -Her house was warm, dark, and stuffy; very thick red carpets led the -way from hall to drawing-room. Here again was a red carpet, heavy -crimson curtains, and solid furniture of the most debased Victorian -type, of which the crowning atrocity was a large distorted ottoman -in the middle of the room. The walls were covered with chromes, and -mirrors in ponderous frames: a life-sized portrait of the mistress -of the house hung opposite the fireplace, and seemed determined to -challenge attention; it had been painted more than thirty years -previously, and portrayed a slim young lady, with rosy cheeks, -snow-white neck and arms,--and a voluminous blue dress. On her satin -lap reposed a small King Charles,--which same animal, beautifully -stuffed, and sheltered in a glass case, confronted visitors on the -first landing, and struck terror into the hearts of his own species. - -The portrait, the ottoman, and a grand piano, were the chief features -of the apartment, which also contained a good many "occasional" chairs, -and tables, various gaudy cushions, and lamp-shades (the spoils of -bazaars), and a large collection of small rubbish. Mrs. Jenkins was not -what is called "house-proud," and had made no alterations in what had -been her bridal home,--merely contributing the cheap little souvenirs -she had picked up on the Continent; such as Swiss carvings, Italian -delf, marble letter-weights, and paper fans. Her interest was mainly -centred in herself,--and the condition of her health; fortunately she -was as strong as the proverbial horse, and endowed with a hardy Scotch -constitution, otherwise she must have succumbed to the extraordinary -variety of medicines she sampled, and the different "cures" she -underwent. The lady took too little exercise, and too much nourishment. -Even when she was supposed to be completely prostrate, heavily laden -trays were welcomed by an astonishing appetite, which disposed of their -dishes with healthy voracity, and provoked much ribald jeering among -her retinue below stairs. The assimilating of prescriptions in the -shape of drops or tabloids, were with Mrs. Jenkins, a confirmed habit -and joy,--and took the place of cigarettes,--so soothing to other women. - -Doctors who attended Mrs. Jenkins, were legion in number--occasionally -two or three, unknown to one another, prescribed for the same case. -According to her statement, she had been threatened with almost every -known complaint: arthritis, appendicitis, angina pectoris, seemed to -dog her steps, and yet her recuperative vitality was incredible. - -One week prone in bed with nurses in attendance, and straw laid down -in the street: long ere the straw was removed, the invalid might have -been seen making a hearty lunch at "Prince's" or doing a matinée at the -Haymarket. Indeed, it was on record, that a bewildered caller had found -the knocker at No. 900 muffled, and on inquiring for the sufferer with -almost bated breath, was informed that she was at Ranelagh! - -Arabella Jenkins endeavoured to make the most of two worlds: the gay, -hustling, social world, and the invalid sphere,--bounded by doctors, -friendly inquiries, flowers, and commiseration. Nothing made Mrs. -Jenkins more indignant--indeed furious--than any doubt of the bona -fides of her ailments. - -She posed as an extraordinarily plucky woman, who bore her sufferings, -after the manner of the Spartan boy and fox; and those doctors who -refused to see eye to eye with her, or to take part in a medical -farce, were inscribed in her black books as not merely incapable, but -the deadliest of enemies. For all her masterful, despotic ways and -heavy purse, Mrs. Jenkins was more or less in the hands of her eight -servants, her old friends, and her numerous parasites. - -She held a court of elderly women; ladies in waiting (for favours) -attended her, flattered her, and sung her praises,--particularly in -her own presence. These, she rewarded with dinners, presents, drives, -her cast-off gowns, and her confidence. They had all expressed deep -sympathy over the impending invasion of this girl; for it was no secret -that "dearest Arabella did not care for young people." Intensely -jealous of each other's influence, they combined in a solid phalanx, -against an intrusive outsider. - -Two of Mrs. Jenkins' chief friends were sitting with her one afternoon -late in June. One had presented flowers, the other had propped her -up with cushions, and brought her a footstool--almost as if she was -recovering from one of her notable heart attacks. In reality, she was -awaiting the arrival of Miss Nancy Travers,--and Miss Nancy Travers was -late! - -Mrs. Taylor, chief counsellor, and parasite, was a widow with a -masculine cast of face, a dark red complexion, and beetling black -brows; being tall and massive, Mrs. Jenkins' dresses required a vast -amount of letting out and letting down, before she could assume them. -She lived in a little flat in Earl's Court, and was dependent on -dearest Arabella,--whom she had known as a girl, a fact which made her -position as mistress of the robes impregnable,--for many an excellent -meal, a serviceable cast-off costume, and her summer holidays. In -return for these benefits, she offered continual incense in the -shape of flattery, and much engrossing gossip--having a wide, and -illegitimate knowledge of other people's affairs. - -The other lady, Miss Dolling, was well and fashionably dressed--no -genteel mendicant this! but she was unfortunately plain: a long nose, -no chin, and fat flabby cheeks, largely discounted her string of -valuable pearls, and French toilette. Bessie Dolling, the original wife -selected for Laurence Travers, was as yet an unappropriated blessing: -after twenty years, she still hoarded Laurence's photograph, hugged -his memory, and firmly believed that if he had not been caught by an -adventuress, he would have returned to claim her. This fiction was a -sustaining consolation to the poor lady, did no one any harm, and need -not be begrudged. - -The three friends were grouped round the open window overlooking -Queen's Gate; Galpin the butler had just removed the tea-things, and -departed with the tea-cloth neatly tucked under his arm. He was a -stout, clean-shaven man, with a considerable meridian, and a stern -mouth. N.B.--His mistress was not a little afraid of him. - -"I wonder what she will be like?" said Miss Dolling suddenly. - -"My dear Bessie, that is the tenth time you have made the same remark," -peevishly protested Mrs. Taylor. "We shall know in a few minutes." - -"She will be exactly like her father," announced Mrs. Jenkins as -if stating a fact; "a dark Travers, with black hair, and well-cut -features, especially the Travers' nose," and as she spoke, she put up -her hand and stroked her own organ, which was short, thick, and first -cousin to a _nez retroussé_. - -"I shall send her to her room almost at once. These interviews are so -dreadfully trying for my poor heart." - -"Yes, dear friend," purred Mrs. Taylor, "and we will take care, that -she does not talk to you about the panther, or how her father was -killed." - -"Not killed at the time," contradicted Miss Dolling; "he died days -afterwards." - -"It was the panther's doing all the same," argued Mrs. Taylor, "and to -think of Laurence Travers making _no_ provision for his girl,--I call -it downright wicked, leaving her entirely dependent on his dear, good, -golden-hearted sister." - -At this moment, there was a sound of violent commotion, and deafening -barking on the stairs. The Pom who left the room in close attendance on -cream, and savoury sandwiches, had undoubtedly encountered a stranger. -Miss Dolling looked hastily out of the window and said: - -"Yes--she has arrived! a four-wheeler, and several large boxes." - -Further information was postponed, as the door opened, and Galpin -announced "Miss Travers." Enter, a thin, woebegone girl, with reddish -hair: dressed in a crumpled black muslin, and carrying a waterproof on -her arm. - -Half way to the window, she paused for a moment, endeavouring to -discover which of these three women might be her aunt? Was it the big -one with the shiny red face, the thin one with the tortoise-shell -pince-nez,--that gave her such an owl-like expression,--or the little -fat one in pale blue chiffon? Evidently the latter, for she struggled -out of her arm-chair, and offered a podgy hand blazing with diamonds. - -"How do you do--_no_!" drawing back. "No, no, please don't kiss -me!--I'm dreadfully afraid of microbes. My health, as you know, is so -uncertain, and I have to be very cautious. We have been expecting you -for the last half hour. What has kept you?" - -"I believe the train was late," replied Nancy in a meek voice. Could -this little cross fat woman, be Daddy's sister? - -"Oh, was it? Have you paid the cab?" - -"Yes." - -"How much did he charge from Charing Cross?" demanded Mrs. Taylor,--an -authority on fares. - -"Four and sixpence." - -"What!" The word was almost a shout. - -"But I had luggage." - -"Oh, yes, and your big boxes had better be kept below," said her aunt; -"I am so afraid of my poor walls being damaged. You can sit down, -Nancy. These are my friends, Mrs. Taylor, and Miss Dolling." - -The ladies shook hands in silence. After a moment Miss Dolling said: - -"Had you a good passage?" - -"Yes, thank you." - -Meanwhile her aunt was surveying Nancy with a look of puzzled -disappointment. - -"So you are _not_ a Travers after all," she remarked. "How odd, and -unexpected." - -"No, I believe I am a Blake." - -"A Blake," repeated Mrs. Jenkins, "I never heard of the people," and -she knitted her light eyebrows as she reflected that possibly "Blake" -had been the maiden name of the adventuress? "I daresay you would like -to take your things off?" - -"Yes, if you please, I should." - -"Then will you ring the bell? It is close to the chimney-piece--on the -far side." - -When Galpin awaited orders in the doorway, Mrs. Jenkins said: - -"Tell Baker to come and show Miss Travers to her room." - -Baker promptly appeared, took the new arrival, so to speak, in tow, -convoyed her to the fifth floor, and into a somewhat shabby apartment, -next to her own bower. - -As soon as Nancy had left the drawing-room, the three ladies closed -in together comfortably, in order to discuss the new arrival with -unreserved enjoyment. The ultimate finding of the conference proved -unfavourable. - -"The girl was not a Travers; her manners were awkward, and she was -quite hopelessly plain!" - - - - - CHAPTER XVII - - AS POOR RELATION - - -Nancy soon fell into the routine of the household, and led an active, -useful life at 900, Queen's Gate. Undoubtedly it was good for her, that -she had no leisure, nor any opportunity for reflection and solitude, -save when in bed. Then she was so thoroughly tired, that she fell -asleep almost as soon as her head was on the pillow. After all, the -daily régime of this elderly establishment, was not so irksome to a -girl who had been for years, accustomed to the strict discipline of a -boarding school. - -Within a week, the new arrival had learnt her aunt's chief ailments and -requirements, taken a sharp impression of her character, and was not -a little amazed at her own capabilities in measuring drops, picking -up stitches, and writing notes. She also read aloud, and went endless -messages. Many a tiresome errand did she save Baker, and the cook; many -a toilsome journey did she make up those long flights of stairs: the -excuse for such constant perambulation, being, "that she was _young_!" - -At first, her visit had been spoken of as "temporary," Mrs. Taylor -and Miss Dolling being actively engaged in searching for a suitable -post for the interloper. The former, was particularly anxious to be -rid of this too useful, and obedient relative,--who accomplished her -tasks without complaint or murmur. The truth was, that Nancy had not -forgotten Mrs. De Wolfe's wise counsel, and inwardly soothed her _amour -propre_ by saying to herself, "Aunt Arabella is Daddy's sister, and -I must try to please her; though lots of the things I have to do, -are hateful,--and Mrs. Taylor is more detestable than everything put -together!" - -Her most unwelcome task, was that of exercising the Pom twice daily on -a lead--a job that really belonged to Baker. He was a little animal -with an odious character,--and not a gentleman; quarrelsome, and -insulting to other dogs, shamelessly greedy and inquisitive, and with a -bark, that was almost worse than a bite! - -Meanwhile Nancy plodded along, buoyed up by hope and letters,--hope -that "Finchie" would be home in the spring, and find her a nice -situation--with payment. Here, naturally, she received no salary; her -wealthy aunt was in some ways surprisingly stingy; a miser with respect -to stamps, and extraordinarily mean in the matter of coal, electric -light, cab fares, and newspapers. As for the electric light, they often -sat in semi-darkness, and yet Mrs. Jenkins thought nothing of paying -from twenty to thirty guineas for a gown, or a shilling for a plover's -egg! - -Nancy's happiest moments were when the Indian mail arrived, and brought -her long despatches from "Finchie," from Francis, from the Hicks -family, and Teddy Dawson. The latter had once enclosed in a letter what -is known as a "fat" cheque, amounting to sixty-three pounds and some -odd shillings, which had been paid into Ted's account on her behalf by -Mayne. This cheque was promptly returned, and Nancy scribbled at white -heat, "I will not touch this money; please do not offer it again, or -ever mention Captain Mayne; all _that_ is a dreadful dream, which I am -doing my best to _forget_." - -Letters from India were not the only ones addressed to Miss Travers -from the outer world. She had received a short note from Mrs. De Wolfe, -and several ill-spelt scrawls, indited by Mr. Fletcher's valet. He was -now living in a sanatorium in Switzerland, a confirmed invalid; indeed -the valet, who was a Scotchman, informed Nancy that his master was "far -through." Mr. Fletcher wished to hear how his little Nancy was faring? -if she had need of money, and if her aunt kept her well supplied? -otherwise she knew where to come for it. _He_ would be her banker. But -poor as she was, Nancy preferred to be independent. A portion of her -savings, still remained intact. - -She sent frequent letters to her old friend, gratefully declining his -offer--telling him everything about herself, that she thought might -interest or please him,--carefully omitting all disagreeables; she -also added scraps of news, gleaned from her Indian correspondence; -in short, Nancy had the art of composing cheery epistles, which were -deeply appreciated by a sick, and solitary exile. - -In August, Mrs. Jenkins journeyed to Harrogate, bearing Nancy and -Baker in her train. The lady much preferred Scarborough, and cast many -wistful thoughts in that direction, but then Baker had a married sister -living at Harrogate, so there it was--or rather, there _she_ was! - -Mrs. Jenkins stayed for several weeks at a fashionable hotel, consulted -a new doctor, sat about the gardens, sipped the waters, and compared -gossip and symptoms with her friends. During the latter part of the -visit, she allowed Nancy to spend a short time with Mrs. Briscoe at -Eastbourne, whilst Mrs. Taylor, who had been languishing in her poky -little flat, stepped nimbly into her shoes. - -Nine hundred, Queen's Gate, was reopened at the end of September. The -charwoman's parties came to an end, and the carriage horses no longer -took the coachman's friends to Hampton Court, Kew, or "the pictures." -Everything gradually settled into the usual routine, as far as Nancy -was concerned; exercising the Pom, changing the library books, shopping -at the Stores, and attending upon her relative. - -One afternoon, as laden with parcels, she re-entered the house, Galpin -handed her a card, on which was inscribed, "Mrs. De Wolfe, Newenham -Court. So very sorry to miss you." The card was presently followed by -a note, inviting Nancy to lunch with Mrs. De Wolfe at her hotel, but -this, alas! she was compelled to decline, as the date fixed, happened -to be her aunt's weekly "day," and she was on duty with the teapot. - -A second note from Mrs. De Wolfe, repeated her disappointment at not -seeing her young friend, especially as she was about to leave London, -in order to spend the winter in the West Indies. Her disappointment was -as nothing to Nancy's, for in her case, it was increased by despondency. - -Ever since her arrival, under her aunt's roof, Mrs. Taylor had been -ceaselessly endeavouring to remove her elsewhere. She had sought out, -and suggested several situations, but these on examination had not -proved to be satisfactory. One, was as an apprentice in a ladies' -blouse and hat shop--to assist in the showroom and workroom, hours -eight to six, dinner provided--no remuneration, but then "it was -such a good opening," that Mrs. Taylor was enthusiastic. Another -"opportunity," of which Nancy refused to avail herself, was as typist -to a rising young dentist--and to give some assistance with the -patients! - -"But I'm afraid of dentists, and I cannot type!" protested Nancy. "If -Aunt Arabella wishes, I can find a situation. Mrs. Briscoe will arrange -for me--she has offered to do so." - -Greatly to her friend's dismay, Mrs. Jenkins was not at present -disposed to part with her useful slave, and sternly commanded Henrietta -to postpone the search. - -Autumn passed without any particular change; Nancy developed into -a sort of extra lady's-maid, companion, secretary, and butt; Mrs. -Jenkins saw a good deal of company: when her health permitted she was -at home on "Tuesdays," and received many visitors,--as her teas were -proverbially well provided--fruit and ices, were not unknown. These -Tuesday afternoons, entailed weary hours for her niece, who stood -pouring out, handing cakes, and generally assisting Galpin. - -Mrs. Jenkins also gave occasional solemn dinners. These banquets -were usually attended by various elderly men of her acquaintance, -as she had a notable cook, and a famous bin of superior old port. -At such festivities, Nancy was not expected to appear; her mourning -was too deep. It was for this reason also, that Nancy was never -invited to accompany her relative to any place of amusement. Mrs. -Jenkins declared, that she could not possibly go into society for a -full twelve-month. Her idea on the subject of mourning, was strict, -and old-fashioned--mourning by the year,--crêpe by the yard. When -the banquets took place, Nancy wrote out the menus, and name cards, -arranged the flowers, and Bridge tables, and then thankfully retreated -to the breakfast-room with a novel, and the Pom. - -Sometimes she felt that this life was almost too difficult! Mrs. -Taylor's poisonous influence told heavily against her; her enemy was -so often with her in the Gate; she lunched or dined two or three times -a week,--and having a genuine appetite for small doles, carried away -fresh eggs, extra flowers, half-cut cakes, a box of scented soap, and -similar useful largesse! After her visits, Nancy always found her aunt -more than usually snappy, and ill to please; yet on the other hand, -Mrs. Jenkins had what her niece mentally called "her good days." On -these, she would talk glibly enough about her brother Laurence; his -mad pranks, his high spirits, his good looks, extraordinary love for -animals, and general popularity with old and young. - -It also seemed to the girl--who was gifted with a vivid -imagination--that now and then, in her aunt's conversation, she -caught a faint echo of familiar expressions, and that she saw at long -intervals on the face of her despotic relative, a glimmer of her -father's smile! For these somewhat far-fetched, and flimsy reasons, -Nancy still clung to her post. After all, Aunt Arabella, with her funny -ways, was her only _near_ relative. She was Daddy's sister too, they -had been brought up in the very same nursery, and had shared the same -home. - -The talks of "old times" at Lambourne, were considerably discounted -by Mrs. Jenkins' rosy and prosy reminiscences of her own personal -triumphs. On this subject, she could expatiate for hours,--content with -a silent audience, or an occasional ejaculation. - -"I daresay, my dear," she remarked to her niece, "that your father -often told you, that I was the beauty of Blankshire, and how people -would stand upon the road to look at me, and push and fight each other, -to travel in the same railway carriage. The County ball was actually -postponed, until I had returned home. After I was married, when I had -a box at the theatre, it was most unpleasant the way the audience -stared--every opera-glass levelled at poor me--and people waited in the -vestibule, to see me pass out. Once when we were dining at a foreign -restaurant, the prince of a royal house, sent round to inquire my name? -Your uncle was furious, and I am sure it was the prince who sent me -every morning, a most beautiful bouquet of flowers!" - -She also related at considerable length, how several great artists had -humbly implored permission to paint her portrait, but had been rudely -snubbed by dearest Samuel: who had never allowed her picture to be on -public exhibition. - -Nancy listened with attentive interest to these tales of triumph, and -faithfully believed in them. It may have been due to this artless -confidence and appropriate deference, that she and her aunt were -perceptibly drawing closer to one another; Nancy would receive an -occasional kiss, a little patting of her hand, or even a word of -praise, and thanks. - -Alas, shortly before Christmas, a slump in Mrs. Taylor's dividends and -a severe financial crisis, figuratively cast that lady at the feet -of her wealthy school-fellow. Dearest Henrietta was received with -open arms, offered the best spare bedroom, the second best, and most -comfortable arm-chair, and soon settled down with remarkable ease into -the position of an established resident. - -Not long after this acquisition to the family circle, Mrs. Jenkins' -manner to her niece underwent a change; she became querulous and -fault-finding, and her "good days" were rare. Once, when the girl had -ventured to speak of her old home, her friends, the far-away blue -hills, and the coffee estate, Mrs. Taylor had coughed significantly, -and her aunt had said: - -"There, that will do, Nancy, that will do! I don't want to hear -anything about those people; I am not interested." - -As there were visitors present, Nancy was overwhelmed, and put to open -shame by such a resounding slap in the face. Perhaps, after all, it was -excellent discipline; Nancy the impulsive, was rapidly mastering the -noble art of self-effacement and self-control. Her sorest trial was -experienced of an evening, when Bridge was played, and Miss Dolling -made a fourth. The scoldings administered to Nancy--especially when -playing with Mrs. Taylor--made her so nervous that her mistakes were -flagrant. She had actually been known to trump her partner's best card; -more than once, she had been driven from the table in disgrace, and the -rubber had ended in "cut throat." - -Only for Mrs. Taylor (whose dislike amounted to personal enmity), Nancy -believed that her aunt would have given her a small share of her heart; -and for her own part, she made a great effort to storm her affections; -but her attempts were invariably foiled by the sinister influence of -Mrs. Taylor, who had marked "darling Arabella" for her own! She had -reason to believe that her name was in "the will"--and naturally the -fewer legatees the better! - -Arabella was so weak and impressionable, she might take it into -her head to make this niece her heiress! The girl was apparently -good-tempered, and willing--but in reality, cunning, and deceitful. -Arabella was of full habit; an apoplectic seizure might carry her off -in a few hours, and she (Henrietta Taylor) was bound to be on her -guard, and to take the situation firmly in hand. With this virtuous -intention, she made stinging speeches, transformed harmless remarks, -accused Nancy of untruth, and impertinence, and did her utmost to -figuratively crush her out of existence like a black beetle, and create -a wide breach between aunt and niece. Mrs. Taylor was particularly -careful never to leave the pair alone; a _tête-à-tête_ was always -a serious danger to be avoided: precisely as if Mrs. Jenkins was a -lovely young heiress--and Nancy, some unprincipled and discountenanced -suitor! If by chance, she entered a room and there discovered the -girl established with her relative, she looked so alarmingly black -and lowering, that Nancy received an impression, that she had been -caught in the act of stealing something that was the property of Aunt -Arabella's old friend! - -On the other hand, when Nancy found the couple together, her appearance -was the signal for an abrupt and significant silence,--undoubtedly she -and her short-comings, had been the topic of conversation. - -In spite of this, Nancy had an instinctive impression that her aunt was -a little afraid of her towering, black-browed inmate; once, when she -made her a trifling and inexpensive present, she added: - -"Don't show it to Henrietta," and on several occasions, she had -whispered, "Not a word of _this_, to Mrs. T.!" - -Mrs. Taylor was now enjoying what might be called "the time of her -life." Of an afternoon, she accompanied her friend in the comfortable -landau, behind a pair of fat brown horses,--royally arrayed in a -superior, if secondhand, ermine stole, and muff. She was carried to -theatres, lectures, concerts, and At homes: was suffered to make the -first pounce upon new novels, enjoy breakfast in bed at pleasure,--and -glasses of port at discreet intervals. Moreover, she had been endowed -with several imposing costumes; and yet she was not happy! for Nancy -Travers represented "Mordecai the Jew," in Queen's Gate,--and until she -was dislodged, her enemy could know no peace. - -It was ten months since Nancy had arrived from India, ten months of -suppressed grief, hard work, and complete isolation. She had recovered -her health,--thanks to incessant occupation, early hours, and good -plain food. "The girl was picking up," as her aunt expressed it, and -once or twice, she had actually been moved to remark, that in Nancy's -now flawless skin, she saw something of "the family complexion!" -(meaning her own). In spite of "the family complexion," Nancy was not -treated as a relative, but an employée; her status in the establishment -was that of a superior "tweenie"; as time went on, there were no longer -any references to "old days at Lambourne," no affectionate pattings or -strokings, no confidences, or small gifts--much less a condescending -kiss. - -Mrs. Taylor made as much mischief as lay in her power, and fomented and -instigated "rows." She never gave her adversary credit for one good -trait, but held up all her short-comings, in the domestic limelight. -Late at night, when established at her ease in her friend's bedroom, -she "talked over" the iniquities of the day with unctuous eloquence. - -She (the chief parasite) loudly bewailed her poor darling Arabella's -fate, in being compelled to support a thankless hanger-on! Pointed out, -that Nancy was secretive, that she wrote too many letters, wasting -her time and stamps; that she was cruel to the Pom, and flirted with -the new doctor--even going so far as to lie in wait for him in the -hall! Every one of these indictments was a deliberate and inexcusable -falsehood; and perhaps Mrs. Jenkins, at the back of her mind, reminded -herself that Henrietta "exaggerated"; but at last, after many vigorous -efforts, Henrietta succeeded in rousing her effectually. One night, as -soon as she had settled herself for the usual talk, she began abruptly: - -"I do believe that girl has been complaining to Mrs. Devine, telling -her that she is miserable here,--at least, that is what _I_ inferred, -from what Mrs. Devine said to me to-day. She was quite sniffy and -stand-off, and refused a cup of tea." - -"What did she say?" demanded Mrs. Jenkins fiercely. - -"She said, that it was noticed how Miss Travers always went about -alone; quite a well-known figure in Kensington Gardens, a tall girl in -mourning, taking a Pom for exercise. That she was never to be seen with -her aunt in the carriage, or at any place of amusement." - -"Why, of course not!" burst out Mrs. Jenkins; "her year of mourning is -not nearly up. What else?" she demanded dramatically. - -"That she appeared to have no young friends." - -"Is it likely, my good Henrietta, that I would allow my house to be -overrun and turned upside down by a pack of young people, simply to -amuse a girl who has to look to _me_, for her daily bread? I never -cared for Mrs. Devine, but I had intended to invite her to my next -large dinner-party. Now I shall cross her name off the list--she shall -eat no more dinners or luncheons, _here_!" - -"I should hope not!" said Mrs. Taylor emphatically, "for Mrs. Murray -told me privately, how Mrs. Devine had remarked to her, that the girl -was treated more like a servant, than a relative: said she was shabbily -dressed, neglected, and snubbed, and that if Miss Travers had a spark -of spirit, she would find another situation--and clear out!" - -This conversation proved extremely agitating to Mrs. Jenkins. It came -as a revelation; a shattering mental avalanche: that anyone among her -acquaintance should dare to find fault with _her_! The extraordinary -influence of Mrs. Taylor, was entirely due to her unfailing supply of -the most honeyed flattery! Misguided Arabella, was invariably told the -things she wished to hear, and lived under the impression, that she was -beyond the reach of criticism; everything she did was right; she had -felt complacently assured that her neighbours and friends unanimously -applauded her, for her benevolence in giving a home to her orphan niece! - -The recent exciting and unexpected information, brought on a sharp -attack of nervous palpitation.--Whenever Mrs. Jenkins was annoyed, -she immediately complained of "palpitation."--Mrs. Taylor had swift -recourse to the usual remedy, a bottle of drops--and as she handed the -wine-glass to her patroness, she said impressively: - -"Darling Arabella, you _know_, you will never have any comfort -or peace, until you get rid of that girl. She is accomplished, I -understand, and now she is nineteen, and looks years older than when -she arrived, surely her friend Mrs. Briscoe can find her a situation as -governess?" - -"No, no," protested Mrs. Jenkins, "I won't have that--Nancy is useful; -clever with her fingers, active on her feet; the Pom is fond of her, -and you know how few people _he_ likes! Baker, too, though terribly -against Nancy at first, thinks her a nice young lady. Of course, I need -not tell you, that I never bargained for a girl in the house; and I -daresay I should be happier without her, but if I were to allow Nancy -to go away, and take a situation--just think of the _talk_!" - -"It would be much better to have one big talk,--and get it over," -declared Mrs. Taylor philosophically, "better to clear the air, than -to have perpetual whispering. Some people are never happy, unless they -are picking holes in such as you--whose shoes they are not fit to -clean. And now, dearest Arabella, I cannot bear to see you worried,--as -you know. If you could only make up your mind to let Nancy take a -situation, we should all be so _much_ more comfortable. Remember she -is not actually your own niece; only your stepbrother's daughter. Do, -_do_, think it over--good-night, my own--darling!" - -"Good-night, Henrietta, and be sure you turn out the electric light on -your landing. Last week, you left it on all night, and just think of -how _that_ will add to my quarterly bill!" - - - - - CHAPTER XVIII - - A RESCUE - - -The winter had been long and dreary, and held no bright gleams for -Nancy, who was sensible of a continuous atmosphere of suppression and -oppression! It was now the capricious month of April, and in sympathy -with its showers, she secretly shed many tears. Mrs. Jenkins had -arrived at the definite decision, that her niece was "unsatisfactory"! -This expression had been specially coined by Mrs. Taylor, who put -it into daily currency. It was true that now and then the girl had -absented herself for an hour or two in the afternoon, taking prolonged -walks round the Park, or Kensington Gardens,--attended exclusively -by the Pom.--She wasted time in the Victoria and Albert Museum, the -Natural History Museum, and had even penetrated to the National Gallery! - -Also, she had found her tongue, and ventured to talk to and make -acquaintance with the elderly crowd assembled every Tuesday. More than -all, she had become careless! She had broken a pet vase, value three -francs, and--incredible enormity!--lost a library book--dropped it -into the street from the top of a motor-'bus. Her last misdeed was of -such gravity, that she had been formally summoned to the drawing-room, -there to appear before her judges, and be sharply reprimanded. As Mrs. -Jenkins, Miss Dolling, and Mrs. Taylor awaited the culprit, the latter -said: - -"My dear, you can see for yourself, how that girl is growing worse and -worse, and becoming more unsatisfactory every day." - -(It should be here explained, that Miss Dolling took a lenient view of -Nancy's delinquencies, and was on occasion her ineffectual champion. -She had even offered to take her to places of amusement--these -invitations never came to Nancy's ears--for Miss Dolling cherished -a mild, sentimental regard, for the daughter of her one and only -love,--whose photograph, enshrined in silver, she treasured as a sacred -relic). - -Nancy's latest misdeed was of far-reaching consequence. Detailed to -fetch her aunt's best transformation from the hairdressers' (where -recently it had been renovated), she had left it in the Tube; abandoned -it to the heartless jeers of railway officials, and the publicity of -the Lost Property Office! The truth was, that Nancy had that morning -heard of the death of Mr. Fletcher, and her thoughts were sad, and far -away, as she travelled to South Kensington.--This valuable work of hair -art, had cost no less than twelve guineas,--and what was poor Mrs. -Jenkins to wear that evening at dinner? - -The scolding had been so bitter, and impassioned, that Nancy's humility -had at last given way, and as, with heightened colour and shining eyes, -she seemed inclined to protest and expostulate, the enemy brought -heavier guns to bear. - -"Is it true?" demanded Mrs. Jenkins, sitting Buddha-like, with folded -arms, "that you write to young men?" - -"Yes," replied Nancy, "I do." - -"She couldn't deny it!" broke in Mrs. Taylor; "I've seen the letters -myself, lying upon the hall table." - -"And you smoke cigarettes up in your own room," she added. - -"Yes, occasionally," admitted the sinner. - -"And waste the electric light, reading in bed," resumed Mrs. Jenkins, -raising her voice with each accusation. "Mrs. Taylor saw the light -under your door after eleven o'clock at night!" - -"I do read in bed,--I've no time to read in the day," answered the girl -defiantly. - -"Keep your temper, miss!--that is not the way to speak to _me_," -shouted her aunt, in an angry voice. - -"No indeed, darling," chimed in Mrs. Taylor, "and after all you have -done for her--taken her in, when she was a penniless orphan, and----" - -"Yes," interrupted Mrs. Jenkins, "and I hear you have gone behind my -back, and complained to Mrs. Devine,--oh, you abominable, ungrateful, -double-faced minx!" - -"To Mrs. Devine?" repeated Nancy. "I have never spoken to her in my -life!" - -"I don't believe you!" declared the accuser, her face alarmingly -aflame; at this sharp crisis, the door was pushed open, and Galpin -announced: - -"Mrs. De Wolfe." - -Mrs. De Wolfe, handsomely dressed, and completely self-possessed, -walked forward to where Nancy stood before her accusers, and said in -her masculine bass: - -"Oh, my dear Nancy, I'm delighted to find you in at last! Pray -introduce me to your aunt?" and she glanced at Mrs. Taylor,--who was -still heaving with virtuous indignation. - -The atmosphere was heavily charged with electricity, and for a moment -Nancy was speechless. Then, hastily recovering herself: - -"This is my aunt, Mrs. Jenkins. Aunt Arabella, here is Mrs. De Wolfe, -with whom I travelled home in the _Patna_." - -The shock of such an unexpected interruption had suddenly sobered Mrs. -Jenkins: for a moment, she had been threatened with palpitation,--but -thrust the temptation aside. Recently, she had heard Mrs. De Wolfe -referred to as a woman of wealth and social importance; she therefore -made an effort to recover her poise, and accord her a gracious -reception. After a somewhat breathless and incoherent conversation with -her hostess, Mrs. De Wolfe turned to Nancy. - -"Have you been here ever since you came home?" - -"Yes," she replied, and then boldly added: "I have not taken a -situation yet; but I intend to see about one immediately," and she -looked straight at her aunt, who encountered her gaze with sullen -hostility. - -This unexpected reinforcement by Mrs. De Wolfe had given Nancy a -species of ephemeral, or "Dutch" courage. - -"Oh, are you, my dear? But before you arrange anything definite, I hope -you will come and pay me a little visit. I am staying for a couple of -weeks at Brown's Hotel, in Dover Street, and shall be glad to have your -company at once." - -The eyes of Mrs. Jenkins and Mrs. Taylor met; their expression was -significant. - -"You are very kind," replied the former, now addressing her visitor, -"but my niece is not leaving me--as far as _I_ am aware--but I shall be -pleased to spare her to you, for a few days." - -"Thank you very much," replied Mrs. De Wolfe. "Then if you will allow -me, I will call for her to-morrow." - -At this moment other visitors were announced, and Nancy's ally rose and -took leave. As she pressed the girl's hand she murmured: - -"Had you not better come down with me to the hall,--and see that I -don't carry off the umbrellas?" - -On the landing, she halted opposite the stuffed dog, and said: - -"My poor dear child! The door was ajar, and I heard every word about -the cigarettes, the electric light, the reading in bed, the penniless -orphan, and Mrs. Devine. What people! As for the big, dark woman, with -the red face, positively she frightened me!--she is like a Gorgon!" - -"I was getting on all right until just before Christmas when Mrs. -Taylor arrived," replied Nancy; "she is dreadfully poor; she hates me, -and thinks I am an interloper, and a fortune-hunter. Ever since she -came into the house, Aunt Arabella is completely changed." - -"I intend that you shall be completely changed," declared Mrs. De -Wolfe. "Oh, I must go! I see the man is waiting at the door. I'll call -for you to-morrow before twelve o'clock,--and I think you had better -bring most of your luggage." - -A visit to Mrs. De Wolfe proved a change indeed. Nancy felt another -creature, living in another atmosphere, and another city. Oh, the -blessed relief, from hearing the ponderous tread of Mrs. Taylor, -Galpin's pompous announcements, and the Pom's maddening bark! - -She and her hostess shopped in the mornings, motored in the afternoons, -and at night, went to concerts, lectures, and the theatre. Within a -few days, it had been decided, that Nancy was to be Mrs. De Wolfe's -companion for the present,--and to receive sixty pounds a year, on -which to dress. Already the girl had felt the stimulating effects of a -new and fashionable outfit! - -"Without flattering myself, I think I may say, that you will be happier -with _me_, than with Mrs. Jenkins," observed her benefactress; "though -I am by no means an angel! Every character has its odd corners, its -limits, and its secrets. You are too young to harbour any secrets -yet--whilst I have dozens!" - -She also added, that later, should anything more satisfactory turn -up, Nancy was not to consider herself bound in any way; and so the -arrangement, or engagement, was concluded--an engagement which existed -for little more than a week. - -One afternoon, Nancy, who had just returned from the Park, was -informed, that someone who had brought a message, particularly wanted -to see her, and she was a good deal surprised, when the door of the -sitting-room was opened, and no less a person than Galpin emerged from -the passage. He was surprised, too,--as he subsequently confessed, when -he imparted particulars of his visit to the lady's maid. - -"There was Miss Travers, looking like another girl! her hair all -fluffed out, wearing a great big hat covered with feathers--quite the -fashionable young lady. I declare to you, Miss Baker, I hardly knew -her!" - -Galpin, who carried a packet of letters in his hand, peered cautiously -round the room, made a stiff little bow, coughed, and said: - -"Mrs. Jenkins sent me over special with these letters for you, Miss. -She said, there was one that looked like a business matter, and is -anxious to know what it is all about? She thinks, as you have been -doing secretary work for her--that maybe there's a mistake in the -name--as it's from a firm of lawyers. I was to bring back the letter, -Miss, and to give Mrs. Jenkins' love, and to tell you how the Pom -misses you." - -Nancy received and hastily examined the letters. The Indian Mail was -in. There was a thick one from Finchie, a thin one from Nellie Meach, -and a postcard from Francis, on which was inscribed, "The dog Togo -is too well." Besides these, one was in a blue envelope, on the flap -of which was printed, the name of a legal firm. She sat down to open -this,--in order to at once satisfy her aunt; whilst Galpin waited, hat -in hand, with an air of respectful curiosity. - -As Nancy glanced over the neatly-written lines, she faintly grasped an -almost incredible fact. Mr. Fletcher's will had recently been read; he -had endowed her with Fairplains, and an income of two thousand a year! -This was the substance of what she gathered, through a maze of legal -expressions. For a moment, she imagined that she must be dreaming. Then -she slowly went over the pages, and noted, that the firm requested an -immediate interview, and that one of their clerks would wait upon her -at an hour, and date, to be hereafter fixed. - -For a moment or two she sat motionless, endeavouring to collect her -faculties; then, with considerably heightened colour, she raised her -head, and looked up at Galpin,--who almost conveyed the impression that -he was in attendance at table, and waiting to remove her plate! - -"Please tell Aunt Arabella, that the letter was really for me, and -contains good news. I will write to her to-night." - -"Very well, Miss. Is that all--ahem--_no_ particulars?" Galpin's tone -expressed extreme disappointment. - -"No particulars," rising as she spoke; "good afternoon, Galpin, I think -you can find your way down," and she indicated the door. - -As soon as this had closed behind Galpin's broad back, Nancy, letter in -hand, rushed into Mrs. De Wolfe's bedroom. The old lady, who had only -recently come in, was changing her boots, assisted by the invaluable -Haynes. - -"I've just had this," announced the girl breathlessly. "Aunt Arabella -sent it over by Galpin; she wanted so much to know what it was all -about? Do look at it--and tell me if you think it's _real_?" - -Mrs. De Wolfe hastily dismissed her maid, and with one boot on, and one -boot off, assumed her glasses and deliberately studied the letter; then -she looked up at Nancy, and said: - -"An heiress, I declare! My dear, I congratulate you. I _am_ glad." - -"Do you think it's true? I can hardly believe it! Oh, I feel I'd like -to run about, and tell the whole hotel of my wonderful good fortune. -It's not the money so much,--but Fairplains--how splendid of Mr. -Fletcher, and oh, if father were only alive!" - -"Fairplains. Yes, it was your father's once, now it is yours; you -were born there, and love it; but a solid income is a satisfactory -fact. Well, now you are independent, and can engage a companion--or a -chaperone." - -"I want to stay with you!" - -"But what will Mrs. Jenkins say?" and Mrs. De Wolfe laughed. "How I -should like to see her face, when she hears that you are no longer 'a -penniless orphan!'" - -When Mrs. Jenkins received the news, she was so startled, and upset, -that she felt compelled to ring for Baker to bring her some special -heart drops; and yet she was gratified in a way. To have a niece who -was an heiress, increased--if that were possible--her sense of her -own importance. Mrs. Taylor was also gratified. There would now be -no question of the return of Nancy to Queen's Gate; no fear of her -inheriting Mrs. Jenkins' substantial fortune; she would without further -exertions, have the house, and the, so to speak, "field" to herself. - -When the heiress arrived to pay her formal visit to Queen's Gate, she -found her aunt in her most agreeable temper. Nancy might almost have -been a titled acquaintance, so effusive was her welcome! After a few -preliminaries, she said: - -"Well, Nancy, so you've come in for a coffee estate, and a large sum of -money! That is nice for you." - -"I suppose there's no fear of the will being disputed?" said Mrs. -Taylor--ever ready with disagreeable suggestions. - -"I think not," replied the heiress. "I remember Mr. Fletcher telling -us, that he was the last of his family." - -"You won't know what to do with all your money," declared Mrs. Jenkins -with a complacent smile. "Of course you will return _here_." - -"Return!" repeated the girl blankly. - -"Why, certainly, you must live with _me_; it is your natural home. It -would be most extraordinary if you did not! What would people say? I am -your only near relative. You will be putting off your mourning, and -I shall take you out this season,--and perhaps give a dance for you. -You shall have a room on the next floor,--and I daresay you can keep a -maid." - -Mrs. Taylor's face clouded over as she listened to these luxurious -arrangements. How close Arabella had been; the sly old thing had never -dropped a word of these plans, during their nightly conferences. - -"Thank you, Aunt Arabella," replied Nancy, "but I am going to travel -with Mrs. De Wolfe. We shall probably be abroad for a year. I have -never been on the Continent; and I think we shall start as soon as the -lawyers have finished with my affairs." - -"That is a monstrous idea; I shall not give my consent," declared her -aunt with a very pink face. "Mrs. De Wolfe is a complete stranger. -Ten days, or a fortnight, is all very well, but you cannot go about -the world with a woman who is nothing to you beyond being a fellow -passenger. It would be most unseemly. Remember that you are not of age -yet,--and have no right to do just as you please." - -"I see no objection," murmured Nancy. - -"You see _me_," announced Mrs. Jenkins with emphasis, "_I_ am the -objection. You cannot deny, that I stand to you in the place of a -parent--that I have received you,--and adopted you"--here she paused to -sneeze. - -"I was not aware that you had adopted me, Aunt Arabella; and I think I -had better say at once, that I should be sorry to have any disagreement -with you, but I cannot admit that you have any right to control me. -Mrs. De Wolfe and I, are starting for Italy in a few days, and this -visit is not merely to tell you about my plans,--but to say good-bye." - -"My dear, I think Nancy is _very_ wise," proclaimed Mrs. Taylor, -advancing unexpectedly to her rescue. "You know, that she has seen -nothing of the world as yet; and she is so young; the tour will -complete her education. Mrs. De Wolfe is a friend of the dear -Foresters, and the aunt of Lady Bincaster, _quite_ all that she ought -to be! Judging by my own feelings, I am sure that Nancy would not care -to go into company yet; and anyway, the state of your health could -never stand the strain of playing chaperone, and keeping late hours. -Now _could_ it?" laying her heavy hand upon her friend's fat arm. "Of -course we all know, that you are always only _too_ ready to sacrifice -yourself for others; but your friends could never permit you to -undertake, what would be practically, a sort of prolonged suicide!" - -"Well, I suppose there is something in what you say," admitted Mrs. -Jenkins, after a moment's reflection, reluctantly releasing the vision -of a wealthy niece on show--and so to speak, bearing her own train. - -Indeed, such was the effect of Mrs. Taylor's soothing, and cooling -remarks, that by degrees, her old school-fellow recovered her temper -and complacency. She talked about the Continent, of her triumphal -progress through various cities, and related the tale of a tragic -experience in the Tyrol, where it had been whispered "that a gallant -young Austrian officer had precipitated himself from a mountain peak, -solely on her account!" - -After half an hour's discourse,--chiefly reminiscent,--Mrs. Jenkins had -talked herself into a condition of the utmost good humour, and with -the promises of letters, and many picture postcards, the visitor was -permitted to take leave. - -As Nancy departed, she noticed Baker peering at her over the banisters, -and nodded to her affably, as she descended the stairs,--on which she -had made many weary journeys--also it seemed to her, that Galpin the -pompous, held the hall door extra wide, and was impressively benignant, -as she passed forth. - - - - - CHAPTER XIX - - "A MYSTERY ABOUT MAYNE----" - - -More than two years had elapsed since Derek Mayne left Fairplains. -Almost immediately afterwards, his regiment had been removed from -Cananore, to the distant cantonment of Bareilly,--a station which -instead of lying on the damp seaboard of the Malabar Coast, was -situated in the heart of a sugar cane district, with the white -Himalayas glimmering on its horizon. Here, in hard work, and strenuous -play, parades, manœuvres, inspections, cricket, polo, and fishing in -the Sardar, time passed only too rapidly; thanks to new surroundings, -new friends, and incessant occupation, the memory of Nancy became a -little blurred. - -Mayne recalled her existence, when he dispatched his half-yearly cheque -to Teddy Dawson; for although his friend had assured him, that the -money would lie untouched, nevertheless he persisted in lodging the -amount at Grindlays. Teddy had volunteered the news, that Nancy was now -living in London, with her father's sister; but of this information, -Mayne vouchsafed no notice, and correspondence, save for the bi-annual -cheque, had completely lapsed. The yearly sum of two hundred and -fifty pounds,--which was half of his private income,--left Mayne -somewhat pinched in his finances. To keep a couple of ponies, to go on -fishing, and shooting trips, required a certain number of rupees; and -occasionally Captain Mayne found considerable difficulty in making both -ends meet! His brother officers wondered why the deuce Mayne was now so -economical? and what he had done with his money? - -An incredible story had leaked out through Mayne's Madras servant--who -had accompanied him to the Hills; it whispered, that when there, he had -got into some sort of entanglement with a girl! This tale was frankly -discussed, and believed, in the Gorrah bazaar at Cananore, but had -never risen in any substantial form to higher circles,--such as the -club or mess; and yet all the time, though nothing was said, there -was a vague uneasy feeling, that Mayne was keeping back some incident -or experience, connected with his six week's leave on that coffee -plantation. It was noticed, how, although he had apparently enjoyed -extraordinarily good sport, he was strangely reserved with regard to -his hill friends; rarely referred to his expedition, and sat dumb when -other fellows less successful, loudly bragged of their "shikar." - -Also it had been remarked, that when he returned from the Neilgherries, -he had appeared to be extraordinarily depressed, and that Mayne always -such a cheery fellow, with lots to say for himself, hadn't a word to -throw to the traditional dog. Former enthusiastic letters received by -his friends, describing his delightful quarters, his first-class sport, -were subsequently discounted, by a mysterious, and significant silence. -One surprising fact, had been much discussed; Mayne was just the -ordinary young man, and not in the least eccentric, and yet when his -trophies were unpacked, displayed and praised (two magnificent tiger -and three panther skins, all in first-class condition), as the largest -panther skin was unrolled, he seemed strangely put out, and gave a -hasty order to his bearer. Later, but four skins were exhibited, and -when the fifth was inquired for, the bearer promptly answered that "the -Sahib had given orders, that it was to be taken away and _burnt_!" - -In a small Mofussil station such as Cananore, topics of conversation -are but scanty. There was a good deal of talk and conjecture, -respecting this same panther. Why had Mayne ordered such a prize to -be destroyed? Why could he not have given it to someone--if he had a -particular down upon the animal?--the Colonel's wife would have been -proud to accept its skin. - -No satisfactory answer to this was obtained at the time, but later, it -became known that Mayne's friend, the coffee planter, had died, as the -result of an encounter with a panther; it was conceded that possibly -_that_ was the reason of Mayne's agitation, and the order for the -destruction of an unusually fine trophy. - -Skin or no skin, there was some mystery connected with Mayne's visit -to the Neilgherries. Since then, he had been obviously short of money, -and given to unwonted economy. He drank cheap claret, refused himself -a new rifle, and another polo pony. A hard player like Mayne, found it -difficult to manage with less than three. Whatever the trouble was, -he did not avoid society; he was popular with women; his good looks -and good manners, made him a general favourite. He went to dances -and picnics, was conspicuous in gymkhanas, and every afternoon, when -nothing was "on," he played rackets or tennis at the club. Once or -twice, when a particularly active girl happened to be his tennis -partner, he recalled Nancy,--not one of the lot could approach her as -far as play was concerned. Who would have believed that her thin brown -arm and wrist, was capable of such smashing strokes, and disastrous -service? - -Mayne had now been three years in India, and never exhibited any -intention of taking leave home. Apparently he preferred an excursion -into Thibet, or Cashmere. At the back of his mind, he had a conviction, -that as long as he remained in the country, he was safe from any -awkward developments that might result from the ceremony which had -taken place in the drawing-room at Fairplains. - -Yet at the same time, he had an impression that some day, like murder, -it would all come out,--and there would be a holy row! Meantime he -thrust the hateful prospect into the lumber room of his brain; the -poignant memories of the last week of Travers' life had now become -a little dim. Supposing he had held back, and not suffered himself -to be moved by an exceptionally tragic situation: by Mrs. Hicks' -observations, and carried away by an almost irresistible impulse? he -could have guaranteed an acceptable income to Nancy, which would have -left them both free! - -Now, they were bound together by that deadly certificate in his -despatch box, on which were inscribed the names of Eleanora Nancy -Travers, spinster, and Derek Danvers Mayne, bachelor. Nothing but death -could release them. Occasionally plunged in contemplation, he would let -his mind work; endeavouring to trace some way out of this desperate -situation. His thoughts would travel to and fro, as in a maze,--vainly -seeking some safe, and honourable exit. Sometimes, during these moods -of reflection, his companion for the moment, would wonder at Mayne's -abstraction? Once or twice, he had been offered "a penny for his -thoughts," but had invariably dismissed the offer with a laugh. - -Finally summing up the affair, he assured himself that some day or -other--perhaps in twenty years--the whole business must be disclosed. -Supposing Nancy wanted to marry someone?--supposing he were to meet -_the_ girl, and fall in love with her? what a complication that would -be! After all, the present was calm and peaceful, he could discern no -clouds on the horizon, and soothed his uneasiness, with the well-worn -sedative,--"Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof." - -Such were Mayne's sentiments, when he received a cable from home, -informing him that his uncle had met with a serious accident, and -begging him to return at once. As there could be but one answer to such -an appeal, Mayne instead of taking his intended sixty days' shooting -leave into Garwalb, immediately applied for three months to England--on -"urgent private affairs." - - - - - CHAPTER XX - - NEW SCENES AND NEW FRIENDS - - -Nancy and her chaperone spent a year on the Continent, visiting several -capitals, and various scenes familiar to Mrs. De Wolfe. Not a few -foreign hostelries knew and respected the dominating personality, and -heavy purse, of this hawk-eyed "bird of passage." - -Nancy was now twenty. Like a flower she had expanded in the sun of -happiness, and developed into a strikingly beautiful girl. The mahogany -tint had given place to a matchless complexion: her figure no longer -boyish and angular, was slender and graceful, her dress was dainty, -and she carried herself admirably. After a long and complete eclipse, -Nancy's vitality and vivacity had returned with undiminished vigour: -the girl was never tired, idle, bored, or--silent; the mere fact of -her presence, seemed to neutralize weariness and depression. Yet the -death of her father was a never forgotten grief; he stood apart, as the -one impressive, and beloved figure connected with her life in India. -Memories of Finchie, the "Corner boys," and the Hicks', had become a -little faint; as for the acquaintance of a mere six weeks, she had -thrust him entirely out of her mind. At first, like some pernicious and -persistent insect, he had returned again and again; but for many months -she had been free from this hateful visitation. - -Possibly when a young woman determines to evict from her thoughts a -disagreeable lodger--such banishment is complete. Nancy had assured a -quaking heart, that the ceremony of her marriage might be dismissed to -the limbo of a bad dream. It had been carried out solely to comfort and -relieve the anxiety of her dying father; but as a binding contract, -Finchie had positively declared, that it could be easily annulled. - -It was more than two years since Nancy had heard of Captain Mayne, -"out of sight, is out of mind," especially as her mind was full to -overflowing of new scenes, new interests, and new friends. - -During their wanderings, Mrs. De Wolfe had encountered various -neighbours, acquaintances, and connections. Her circle was world wide. -At the Hôtel National, Lucerne, she came across the Miller family,--who -lived within a motor drive of her home in Moonshire. - -Truly, it was a strange and startling tale that Lady Miller poured -into the ear of her neighbour, when she had carried her off to her own -apartment, and could there talk without restraint! It appeared that -the four Miss Millers, had combined to break loose, had cast off all -obedience, and so to speak, flung the fourth commandment to the winds! -Headed by Wilhelmina--the eldest--they revolted against home life, -and clamoured to be taken abroad, in order to see something of what -they called, "the world." "Wilhelmina," continued Lady Miller, "has an -iron will and enormous influence over her father. It took her a whole -fortnight to gain her point, at the end Lucas yielded, and, my dear old -friend, I know you will pity us, for 'here we are!'" - -Yes, Wilhelmina's triumph had been remorseless, and complete! - -Glancing round the luxurious bedroom, whose windows commanded a fine -view of the lake, Mrs. De Wolfe was not disposed to offer much sympathy -to the lachrymose lady. - -"Of course I don't approve of the present ordinance," she said: -"Parents obey your children, but possibly a little change may be no -harm for any of you. Your girls are grown up. Why! Billy must be six -and twenty! The twins are a charming couple, and so far, have been born -to blush unseen! Millfield Place _is_ rather isolated, and surely you -would not wish to have four old maids on your hands,--now _would_ you?" - -"_I'm_ no husband-hunter," declared Lady Miller with considerable -warmth, "and if girls are to be married, they'll _be_ married." - -"Well, that depends on circumstances! I remember an Irish servant who -gave, as her reason for leaving an excellent, but dull situation, that -'she was out of the way of Providence.' I think there is the same -drawback to Millfield." - -Millfield Place was situated in a remote part of Moonshire, and in -the days of Charles II., it had been the nucleus of many a robust -and rollicking festivity: but time works changes, the Place was now -generally referred to, as the "Back of Beyond." It was six miles -from the nearest railway station: on the mere outer fringe of County -Society, and to many of the rustics in Millfield village, the word -"pictures" or "telephone" carried no meaning! Here years had passed -swiftly--as they generally do, when spent in an uneventful, and -monotonous round. - -The four Miss Millers were endowed with an unusual amount of good -looks, and intelligence; Wilhelmina, the eldest and heiress, was small, -active, clever and outspoken: with a heart that knew no fear, and -full of devotion to her sisters. Minna and Brenda (twins) were tall, -vivacious and very fair to see. Amy, the youngest, aged twenty, had a -wonderful mop of dark red hair, a pair of twinkling sea-green eyes, and -uncontrollable spirits; she was still addressed as "Baby!" - -For some years, the sisters had contented themselves with tennis, -the sewing club, village entertainments, and the rearing of prize -poultry; and then Wilhelmina, when her twenty-sixth birthday struck, -began seriously to consider the situation. As alone she paced the -long terrace, she held a solemn debate with herself, and this was the -burden of her meditations: "Here we are embedded in the country, and -growing into fossils. We haven't even a motor--because mother loathes -them! We never see a soul, except the same old set, the Rector and Mrs. -Puddock, Doctor and Mrs. Frost, father's elderly shooting friends; and -once in a blue moon, the Hillsides, or Mrs. De Wolfe. Other girls go -about, and visit new places, make new acquaintances, and have a good -time; and we are young but once! I shall urge the Pater to transport -us all to the Continent, for one whole year. If he resists, and won't -listen to reason, I shall just tell him, we will leave home; the twins -to go on the Stage,--front row,--Baby, to an A B C shop, and I to be -a stewardess; I know I should love the sea,--which by the way, I have -never seen!" - -When Wilhelmina cautiously opened the subject to her mother, that -lethargic matron was almost as startled as if a bomb had exploded -on the hearth-rug! When she had recovered her senses (momentarily -paralysed), with unusual animation, she expressed indignant horror at -the mere suggestion of such a move. She pointed out to Billy that she -and her sisters were extraordinarily fortunate; they had carriages, -maids, saddle-horses; and every possible indulgence; the newest library -books, a handsome dress allowance; what more did they want? Besides, -how could such a pack of girls go dragging about the Continent! -Certainly she would be no party to the crazy undertaking. Of course if -they had been _boys_, it might have been different! - -"Yes!" retorted Billy, "boys always get everything they want, and girls -go to the wall." - -"Well, boys or girls, nothing will induce _me_ to leave my comfortable -home," declared Lady Miller. "Paris, Switzerland, Egypt!" slightly -raising her voice, "why, Wilhelmina, you must be mad! You know -perfectly well, that I've not been even to London, for more than two -years." - -Lady Miller, a pretty, plaintive, fragile-looking woman, had been -a celebrated beauty in her day,--but was now disposed to rest -on such laurels, as remained. She relinquished visiting, and -entertaining--beyond a small tennis party, or a few neighbours to -tea,--pleading the state of her health; which, as it happened, was -excellent; but the poor woman suffered from the dire and mortal malady -of inertia; which is known to attack victims who live remote, and -idle. The disease had grown from bad to worse, and Lady Miller had -now abandoned herself to an existence of self-indulgent indolence. -She was contented with her comfortable sofa, her embroidery, novels, -patience cards, visits from newsmongering matrons,--and on fine days, -an inspection of her celebrated rock garden! Wilhelmina had relieved -her mother of all housekeeping worries: she managed the school, the -village,--and her father. - -The younger girls were amusing, chattering creatures: fond of racing -through the rooms, banging doors, and bringing in dogs, but remarkably -pretty--especially Brenda, who at times, was almost startlingly lovely! -Once or twice, Lady Miller had murmured to her husband "that she -wished Brenda's rich godmother would invite her to pay her a visit in -London,"--and her husband had accorded an indifferent assent--_he_ did -not wish to part with _any_ of his girls. - -Sir Lucas Miller was an active, fussy, little gentleman of fifty-five, -whose time was absorbed by tenants, shooting, the county club, and the -Bench! Little did he suspect, how soon the pleasant current of his days -was to be diverted. One evening after dinner,--a particularly good -dinner,--the bold, adventurous, and _cunning_ Wilhelmina, accompanied -him to the smoking-room, and as he enjoyed a Havana, calmly proceeded -to lay her plans before him. - -Everything had been most carefully considered: the whole itinerary -minutely sketched; reasons for the expedition were confidently -advanced, and dilated on, and when at last, Wilhelmina had ceased -to speak, she discovered that her communication had left her father -speechless! For quite a surprising interval, he remained silent,--Sir -Lucas was thinking things over! He liked to see his pretty, lively -girls flitting about the house and tennis courts, but it had never once -dawned on him, that they craved either change, or other diversions. -"Why, they had the Hunt Ball in January,--weather permitting,--the -cricket week in July,--also weather permitting!" - -In his opinion, they were remarkably well off; and as Billy, his -favourite, had carefully unfolded her schemes, he could scarcely -believe his own ears. - -"Close the house for twelve months! take you all abroad!" he cried at -last. "What a monstrous idea. How about the estate, and the shooting?" - -"You have an excellent agent, Dad, I've often heard you say so,--and -now you may as well give him something to do. You know you're one of -the people who keep a dog,--and bark yourself!" - -"Rubbish! rubbish! preposterous nonsense!" - -"I know you won't mind, dear, if I speak a little plainly. Looking -at it from our point of view, do you think you are quite playing the -game? You and the Mater have had your good times! You talk of Ascot, -Scotland, and Paris; of dances and balls, operas, and races. Now _we_ -should like to be in a position, to enjoy the same experiences. We are -very ready to be amused: or even employed; but there is not enough -work here for the four of us. Are we always to content ourselves with -visiting old women, rearing Buff Orpingtons, and finding our chief -excitement in scraps of village news! Why, it was only yesterday, that -Baby ran the whole way home, to tell us that the Postman's parrot -was dead! _I_ can jog along all right, I'm not in my first youth, -and I never was pretty; and being the eldest, I can find plenty of -occupation, and interest of sorts; but, dear Daddy, _do_ consider the -three girls; please think of what I've said," and Wilhelmina patted her -parent encouragingly on the shoulder, and walked out of the room. - -In the end, after some remarkably stormy scenes, Billy prevailed; for -Billy, as her mother complained, "could twist her father round her -little finger." Then what Brenda termed, the "great Exodus of the -Millers" actually took place, and poor Lady Miller found herself with -her husband, four daughters, two maids and a mountain of luggage, -carried off to Paris; and from Paris they journeyed to Lucerne. - -At Lucerne, to his audible consternation, Sir Lucas was thrust -into the too prominent post of chaperon--his wife having declared -that her health was not equal to society. Nevertheless, she took a -certain amount of comfort in a sofa, her lace work, and patience -cards,--although the rock-garden, was far, far away! - -At first, Sir Lucas instinctively shrank from following five grown-up -women into a dining-room, or restaurant; but most of his party were so -handsome as to draw all eyes, and in this fact, he found considerable -compensation; also, when he beheld other men doing similar duty, he -became more resigned; and by and by actually began to enjoy this -amazing, and absolute change! He and his girls played golf on the -Sonnenberg, and made excursions, whilst her ladyship and maid, sat in -the shade, listening to the band, or ventured on a little shopping, -purchasing Swiss embroidery, and Italian tortoise-shell. - -In spite of their already large party, the Miller girls good-naturedly -invited Nancy to join them. She and Billy became immediate allies, and -on the Sonnenberg links, laid the foundation of a lasting friendship. - -"We are such a squad of women," she said to Nancy, "but it had to be -all, or none; people get used to us, and find we are quite rural, -and harmless. I think Mr. Holford, and Major Berners are becoming -accustomed to Minna and Brenda, and I'm not the least surprised. At -home, we thought little of their good looks! They were just nice, -cheery, accomplished, girls. Minna has a lovely voice; but here, they -stand out as beauties, and the Pater looks as proud as a peacock with -two tails! They are the prettiest girls in Lucerne, bar yourself!" - -"Oh, what nonsense!" Nancy protested, but Billy signed to her that she -was about to make a drive, and thereby closed the argument! - -At the Grand Hotel, Locarno, Mrs. De Wolfe again encountered -neighbours; Lord and Lady Hillside, their son, and daughter; these were -not merely neighbours, but connections,--and not only connections, but -friends! It turned out, that Lord Hillside and Mrs. Ffinch were brother -and sister, and on the strength of her intimacy with a relative, Nancy -was welcomed by the family. - -Lady Hillside had been an heiress: her fortune had paid off heavy -mortgages on the estate, and repaired the dilapidated castle. So -flourishing now were the Hillside concerns, that Theodore Lamerton, the -heir, a young man in the Guards, was looked upon as a desirable parti. -His mother, was a little woman with a yellow, haggard face, in which -burned a pair of jet black eyes,--eyes of the reformer and fanatic. - -Lady Hillside was feverishly energetic, and full of philanthropic -plans: her name was well known on Boards, and Committees, and she -cherished a secret passion for being, what is called "Chair." Her -interests abroad, were so wide, and so various, that she could spare -but little time for her own family;--in fact, she was something of an -aristocratic Mrs. Jellaby. Her correspondence was enormous; she kept -two secretaries, but rarely looked into her housekeeper's accounts--or -answered what might be termed "a domestic letter." - -Recently her health had broken down from overwork, and a specialist had -ordered her abroad, with strict injunctions, as to absolute rest. Rest -was impossible to a woman of her temperament! It was true that she now -left correspondence in abeyance, but she was actively engaged in making -a wonderful collection of seals and rings,--which enterprise carried -her far, and wide. - -Lord Hillside, a handsome, bearded individual, a great authority on -Egyptology, lived much to himself, and took his walks apart. With his -chiselled aquiline features and well-trimmed beard, he might almost -have passed for an Egyptian Tetrarch himself. Next to Egyptology--and -Rameses the Second, his chief interest in life was his daughter -Josephine Speyde, a widow of eight and twenty. "Josie," as she -was called, had not inherited the family good looks, but had been -endowed with some of her father's brains, and more of her mother's -inexhaustible energy,--which in her case, took the form of a tireless -pursuit of amusement. In appearance she was thin, and hipless; her -complexion was sallow; a pair of magnificent black eyes illuminated -a long, but expressive countenance. Such was her art in dress, and -deportment, that she actually persuaded her world, that she was as -handsome as she was amusing, and otherwise attractive. Married at -twenty to a distant cousin, the alliance had proved unfortunate, and as -Josie herself confessed, "they had found one another out too _soon_." -She was restless, capricious, and extravagant: Victor Speyde was -dissipated, ill-tempered, and jealous. - -The relatives put their heads together, and predicted "_trouble_," -but the death of Captain Speyde in a motor accident, relieved their -apprehensions, and liberated his wife. As a widow, with an independent -income, she returned to live with her parents,--a changed young woman, -who had seen the seamy side of life; she rode hard, smoked incessantly, -and had the reputation for a keen appetite for adventure, and stories, -more or less risky! Mrs. Speyde belonged to a smart Bridge Club, -possessed a car, and a latch-key--and claimed all the prerogatives of -a self-chaperoning widow,--whilst enjoying as she described, "a really -topping time." - -Possibly because they were such a complete contrast in appearance -and character, Mrs. Speyde took a violent fancy to Nancy Travers, -called her by her christian name the second time they met, graciously -instructed her in a new style of hairdressing, offered her the name -of a _very_ private dressmaker, and imparted amusing information -respecting the affairs,--love and otherwise,--of her very dearest -friends. - -Not the least among Josie's accomplishments, was her art of -story-telling; she drew little word-pictures with audacious and -dramatic effect, and her voice, if slightly guttural, immediately -claimed an audience. Nancy wept and screamed with laughter, as she -found herself unexpectedly in the company of Lady Miller,--and all -her invalid airs; not to speak of several of the inmates of the Grand -Hotel; and Josie's own aunt, Julia Ffinch, was also taken off to the -life! - -Nancy was dazzled, flattered, and enslaved. Josie Speyde was so -clever, so gay, and entertaining: she read aloud scraps of delightful -letters,--chiefly from men in foreign parts,--related stirring little -episodes in her own past, and more or less opened the girl's grey-blue -eyes, to their very widest extent. - - - - - CHAPTER XXI - - ON COMO - - -Mrs. De Wolfe rarely remained long in one place; she assured her -friends that she must have gipsy blood in her veins, and offered this -idea as a sufficient excuse for her unexpected, and erratic movements. -Weary of Locarno, she adjourned to familiar quarters at Cadenabbia, and -as soon as she was comfortably installed in her favourite sitting-room, -proceeded as usual, to scan the lists of visitors at the various hotels -in the neighbourhood. - -"I see the Gordons are over at Bellaggio," she remarked. "The -Mackenzies are back at the Villa d'Este, the Wynnes are in this very -hotel; and oh! what a piece of luck!--Dudley Villars is here too," -and as she made this announcement, Mrs. De Wolfe turned an unusually -beaming face upon her companion. - -In answer to Nancy's glance of interrogation, she explained: "He is the -son of my greatest friend; I held him at the font, tied his sashes, -heard his prayers, and if I am not greatly mistaken, smacked him -soundly.--I am very fond of Dudley." - -"Do you think the smackings give him a certain claim?" - -"No, indeed, poor fellow; he makes a stronger appeal than that!" - -"And is he really a poor fellow?" - -"On the contrary, he is rich; but his life has been spoiled, he has -no fixed home; Shandmere is let. Years ago he made an unfortunate -marriage: after a few months of cat-and-dog life, he and his wife -parted, he has no near relatives, or ties, and spends his time rambling -about the world." - -"One of the idle rich?" - -"Idle rich yourself! Dudley is always intensely occupied; in pursuit of -new schemes, the development of a voice, or some literary undertaking. -He is a charming fellow, so popular, and remarkably handsome!" - -"I'm simply dying to see him," exclaimed Nancy. - -"Do not die just yet; I'll send him a little note, and ask him to look -me up as soon as he returns. I thought he was in Greece, but Italy -always draws him. His grandmother was an Italian, one of an ancient -Roman family, and from her, he has inherited his graceful manners, -and taste for art. She has also bequeathed him her olive skin, and -matchless dark eyes." - -"I don't believe I can possibly wait until he calls," said Nancy. "I -think I shall go down, and hang about the hall." - -"Oh, you may laugh, my dear, but you won't make such an acquaintance as -Dudley, in a month of Sundays. He is one of my boys--although he _is_ -getting on for forty--and a particular favourite." - -"So I see." - -"And not without good reason; Dudley is so attentive and thoughtful, to -an old woman. His tender solicitude is quite touching! For instance, -he _never_ forgets my birthday; he knows my tastes in flowers, and -books, and people; remembers my likes and dislikes, the little remedies -I use,--and how I hate sugar, and adore asparagus. Besides all this, I -am his godmother, and since his dear mother is gone, I think he is a -little inclined to look to _me_." - -"I hope he will not be furiously jealous, and insist on turning me -adrift," said Nancy. - -"On the contrary, my dear, you will become friends,--great friends, -and in one way, he will complete your education. He knows Italy, '_au -bout des ongles_,' and every yard of these lakes. He will widen your -literary horizon, take you out sketching--he really _is_ an artist. It -is marvellous how, in a few strokes, he can place a scene or a face -before you. And not only does he sketch, but write; his books are -praised in the Press, his poems, called masterpieces. Strictly between -ourselves, I buy his books,--but I cannot read them. His poetry is -rather, rather ..." she paused, momentarily at a loss for a word. - -"Improper!" suggested Nancy, raising her brows. - -"No, you evil-minded girl! or if there is anything of the sort, it is -too deeply hidden for _me_. His writing is vague, and--er, what I may -call nebulous! There are rhapsodies about colour, sunset, perfume, and -eyes. It all seems to me a sort of hotch-potch, but I keep my opinion -to myself, and when anyone asks me what I think of Dudley Villars' -last? I throw up my hands and say 'it's amazing.'" - -"Does he do nothing but write amazing poems, paint, and travel?" - -"Oh, yes, he goes into society. You will see him in London next season. -He is what I may call in 'fierce demand' for balls. Women intrigue and -squabble, to get him to their houses. He knows all the right people, -and dances like.... Give me a simile." - -"A moonbeam." - -"Thank you. It is considered a very high distinction to be his partner. -I've been told that girls, whom he has overlooked, have actually been -seen with tears streaming down their faces." - -"Poor idiots!" and Nancy laughed heartily, and heartlessly. "So much -for Dudley Villars. Now please tell me something about his wife?" -"I've never seen her; she lives in Florida, I believe, and it is an -old, old story,--they parted many years ago, and possibly people over -here do not suppose that she exists! I happen to know, because I sent -her a wedding present. It is a most unsatisfactory state of affairs, I -must say." - -"I wonder they don't get a divorce? Isn't there some place in America, -where it can be managed,--just while you wait at the railway station?" - -"You mean in Dakota? Well, it's not quite so rapid as all that, and my -dear child how gliby you talk of divorce! What can you possibly know -about it?" - -"I have seen and known divorced people. Don't you remember the pretty -American at Locarno? She had been divorced twice, and was going to -marry that Swedish baron! I believe one of her former husbands happened -to be passing through, and left a card, and a bouquet!" - -"Pray who told you all this?" - -"Josie Speyde!" - -"Oh, Josie," and Mrs. De Wolfe made a gesture of angry impatience. - -"Well, she said the lady was really charming: they made great friends, -and played poker together,--she gave Josie lessons." - -"That reminds me," said Mrs. De Wolfe, looking round, "I see Hardy -has brought down the card box; we shall just have time for a game of -piquet, before we dress for dinner." - -The two ladies had scarcely settled down to piquet, when the door was -flung wide, and a sonorous voice, announced, "Sir Dudley Villars!" - - - - - CHAPTER XXII - - "SIR DUDLEY VILLARS" - - -The meeting between Sir Dudley, and his godmother, was warmly -affectionate. Nancy gazed in amazement, as she beheld him kiss the -old lady foreign fashion, on either wrinkled cheek. After one or -two ejaculations, and explanations, he was presented to her, and -wonderful to relate, neither fell short of her lofty expectations, nor -her chaperon's glowing description. Sir Dudley was slightly built; -admirably turned out; he had clear-cut features, wavy dark hair,--the -front locks picturesquely powdered with white;--his smile was almost -an embrace; whilst his eyes, which were dark, were the very saddest, -and most arresting, that Nancy had ever encountered. - -But these tragic, heart-broken eyes, had no connection, with their -owner's real disposition, and feelings; they were merely a notable -family endowment, and had been for generations, a valuable asset in -the fortunes of the noble Casserini. It was whispered, that these same -eyes, had won vast estates, a ducal palace, and even,--but this is in -your ear,--a cardinal's hat! In the present instance, the eyes were -allied to an agreeable voice, a cultivated taste, and a captivating -personality. Indeed one enthusiastic friend, had been heard to speak of -Villars, as "a delicious fellow!" Delicious or otherwise, he was not -to the taste of various married men, and one or two nervous chaperons. -These, viewed him with no favour; but rather, as a shepherd beholds a -strange, and suspicious dog! - -The visitor and Mrs. De Wolfe immediately embarked on an animated -conversation, an eager exchange of plans, and news, and Nancy, -after listening for some time to the sayings and doings of complete -strangers, made an excuse about dressing in good time, and left the -friends to enjoy a _tête-à-tête_. No sooner had the door closed upon -her, than Sir Dudley said: - -"My dear Auntie Wolfe, where did you get hold of such a beautiful young -lamb? Is she the new companion you mentioned?" - -The old lady nodded a complacent assent. - -"You never were much given to companions, were you? I only recollect -two; unprepossessing elderly females. What an amazing change!" - -"Yes, I couldn't stand either of those elderly females; one had such -decided views, and argued every question,--from the proper way to boil -an egg, to the age of the world. The other, had a maddening sniff, and -read all my letters. Still, an old woman cannot live entirely alone. -There are wet days, and long evenings! I want someone to read to me, -and play piquet. Nancy is pretty good for a beginner, but not like -you,--a foeman worthy of my steel!" - -"Nancy! What a nice simple name," said Sir Dudley. "Miss Nancy has -lovely eyes; I admire their clear, crystal gaze of childlike innocence. -Do tell me _all_ about her?" - -In a few short but pithy sentences, Sir Dudley was made acquainted with -the history of Miss Travers,--that is to say, as known to her chaperon. - -"An orphan with tons of money, no undesirable relations, and a -truthful, affectionate, nature; dear Auntie Wolfe, allow me to offer -you my warmest congratulations! And how long do you suppose this -delightful alliance will last?" - -"To the end of my days, if I could have my wish," was the prompt reply. -"The child is my right hand, and simply radiates happiness; however, -some odious man is sure to snatch her from me, and carry her off as -_his_ companion for life!" - -"Yes," he assented, nodding his head, "I'm afraid your partnership -is doomed! A beauty, an heiress, and launched by Mrs. De Wolfe--your -chance of keeping her, is not worth the traditional button! But how you -will enjoy yourself in the meanwhile! You who are always so interested -in love affairs, and happy marriages." - -"Well I give you my solemn promise, that I shall be in no hurry to -marry off Nancy." - -"Has she had any love affairs, do you think?" - -"No, indeed. Why, my dear Dudley, you've only to look at the girl's -face, to see that she has yet to experience the heart's awakening." - -"_Dio mio_, and what a delightful task for some too lucky fellow!" - -"Now look here, Dudley," and Mrs. De Wolfe suddenly sat erect, and -tapped his sleeve with her pince-nez. "No experiments if _you_ -please,--no philandering. I'm not in the way of seeing the gay, and -gallant aspect of your character; you turn the good and steady side to -my old eyes,--but I have _ears_, and I have heard tales." - -"No doubt you have, dearest Auntie Wolfe, but you know you should -never believe anything you hear, and only the half of what you see. I -grant you, I have amused myself, _pour passer le temps_, but only with -hardened, and accomplished flirts, who know how to play the game; never -with girls,--and I thought you barred girls yourself?" - -"Yes, I do, the usual run, who giggle, and whisper, and have silly -secrets, and make faces at me behind my back. Now Nancy hasn't a secret -in the whole world; if she had, she couldn't keep it! Her life is -an open book, 'who runs may read.' A coffee plantation, an English -school, once more a coffee plantation; her father's death, a year's -slavery to an abominably selfish aunt; from this aunt she came to -me--and there's her history!" - -"How old is she?" - -"Past twenty, and in some ways, absurdly young for her age." - -"And I am thirty-eight, and absurdly old for my years, so I think you -had better appoint me deputy-chaperon. Well now, I must be off to -dress! May I look in again after dinner?" - -"To be sure," assented Mrs. De Wolfe, "come in and out, whenever you -please, just as you always do, and arrange to sit with us in the -restaurant. Don't let _Nancy_ make any difference!" - -"All right, then, I won't! I've got a capital motor-boat; I'll take you -both on the lake, all day, and every day, and anywhere you like." - -Sir Dudley Villars promptly installed himself as one of Mrs. De -Wolfe's party, whilst Antonio, his valet, enacted the part of -_cavaliere-servente_, to the two lady's-maids. He sat with them at -meals, entered their sitting-room, when so disposed--which was often; -played piquet, sang tender and emotional love songs in a melting tenor, -to Nancy's accompaniment, and was even suffered to smoke! He was -evidently attached to his godmother, and full of _petits soins_ on her -behalf. His manner to her was charming; that of a cheery, sometimes -teasing, and yet always devoted son! He went her errands, carried her -wraps, brought her flowers, books, and papers; also occasionally, his -letters from mutual friends; made a capital sketch of her for Nancy, -a sketch of Nancy for his godmother, and altogether lived up to his -reputation. - -Mrs. Wynne, her daughter Flora, her fiancé--a young diplomatist on -leave from Rome--joined forces with Mrs. De Wolfe. A party of six, just -filled the motor-boat, and were admirably paired--two matrons, two -lovers, Nancy and her new friend. Sometimes the younger people, went -up and spent a long afternoon on the links above Menaggio; but as a -rule the days were devoted to picnics and excursions, about the lake. -Mrs. De Wolfe was anxious that Nancy should see all her old favourite -"beauty spots," and proved an active, and indefatigable chaperon, but -a long tiring day at Grave-dona, was too much for her seventy-four -years. Returning amid the late mists, she caught a severe chill, and -was confined to her room for one whole week; and as the Wynnes had -betaken themselves to Bellaggio, Nancy and Sir Dudley were abandoned to -a _tête-à-tête_! - -The invalid would not suffer her young companion to sit what she -called "stuffing,--in a sick-room," and drove her forth to enjoy the -exquisite autumn weather; to walk, to boat, and to sketch,--and so it -came to pass, that Nancy and Sir Dudley--a rather striking pair--went -about together, to play golf, to visit old villas and lovely gardens, -or to climb the hills to well-known holy shrines,--also to flit around -the lake in the motor-boat; now to Como, now to Varenna,--in short, -wherever their fancy carried them! - -Nancy had found old friends in Menaggio; the two Clovers (her -schoolfellows), and their belongings,--which included their parents -and an elder brother. They were eager for her company; she played golf -with them on several occasions, but somehow most of the shining hours -were claimed by Dudley Villars,--who pronounced the Clover family to -be "bourgeois," and the son,--who exhibited a fervid interest in Miss -Travers, "as a blundering lout, with a calf-like smile, and dull to the -verge of idiocy." - -Dudley, to do him justice, was a delightful companion; so entertaining, -so thoughtful, always ready to fall in with the slightest whim; and -he did things so well! To Nancy his painting was a revelation and a -delight, his voice was sympathetic, and he told her many entrancing -tales, of his wanderings in the far-away East, and then his good -looks,--what a haunting face! - -Sir Dudley's manner to his charming companion, had been partly that of -a kindly teacher, and comrade; tinged with an infusion of chivalrous -reverence. - -Oh, how different to Teddy and Nicky, who never hurried to open a -door, or stand up, when she entered the room. Once or twice Nancy had -asked herself, if she was not growing to like this charming friend, -_too_ well? After all; he was no relation. Simple Nancy! And she could -not forget, that when he had gone to Milan for two or three days, she -had missed him even more than his godmother; and once or twice, when, -looking up suddenly, she had met his eyes, she found herself blushing -to her hair. - -That he liked and admired her,--Nancy felt instinctively, and a -chilly little inward voice asked, if she was going to what is called -"fall in love?" She dismissed the idea with horror. Sir Dudley was -married, and had a wife living; she too was married, and had a husband, -somewhere--incredible as it seemed, even to her own thoughts. One -night, she took herself solemnly to task--sitting at her bedroom -window, looking down at the stars, reflected in the lake, she held an -inquiry. Dudley had often given her flowers; he had lately assumed an -attitude of exclusive protection and possession; once it had seemed to -her,--though it might have been imagination,--that he had pressed her -hand, as she alighted from the motor-boat. There must be no more of -_that_. What would her father have thought of his Nancy, if she gave -her heart to a married man? - - * * * * * - -Mrs. De Wolfe had recovered from her chill, and resumed her -responsibilities, but she no longer went on expeditions and -picnics,--contenting herself with going across to Bellaggio, to call -on friends, or to prowl about among the antiquity shops; whilst her -companion sketched in the villa gardens, or endeavoured to immortalize -the tall cypresses, above San Giovanni. - -With the exception of one or two eloquent glances, and an involuntary -hand-pressure, Dudley's manner to his godmother's beautiful companion, -was admirably guarded. With the fear of his old friend's displeasure -before his eyes, it had been a case of what he mentally termed "paws -off," but how could any man under eighty years of age, withstand -such an exquisite creature? So simple and transparently innocent; so -warm-hearted and intelligent, and beyond and above all, what a lovely -vision of glorious youth! It was this, that enthralled the _blasé_ -dilettante. - -He had played the part of genial comrade,--for he knew instinctively -the sort of girl he had to deal with; how easy to alienate, and scare! -She had been informed that he was married, and her Irish spirit and -Irish chastity, were inscribed upon her exquisite lips. He and Nancy -had many talks, and interesting discussions, as they took their daily -stroll along the romantic thoroughfare, which leads from Cadenabbia -through and beyond Tremezzo. Mrs. De Wolfe frequently accompanied them, -and then, when half way, a half-hearted chaperon, sat down on a low -wall to rest, and there await their return. - -Nancy, who always enjoyed the sound of her own voice, and an -appreciative listener, was neither shy, nor self-conscious; at a very -early period of their acquaintance, and with consummate ease, the -subtle man of the world, had made himself master of her simple history. -He enjoyed listening to her vivid descriptions of the Indian hills, and -to confidences as fresh, and pure as the dew of the dawn. He heard all -about her school-days, her father's money troubles, and his splendid -character. She spoke of the Corner boys, and Sir Dudley's old friend, -Mrs. Ffinch. Once and once only had she touched on the tragedy of her -bereavement,--when with averted face, and broken voice, she related -particulars of Travers' death. - -"And what became of the fellow who missed the panther?" inquired -Villars, after a pause. - -"I don't know; he is somewhere in India," she replied, almost under her -breath. - -"Well, I suppose, he was ashamed to show his face." But to this remark -there was no reply. - -Late one afternoon, Sir Dudley and his pupil,--having finished a sketch -of the Baptistery, at Lenno, crossed over in the boat to the Villa -Arconati,--which stands on its promontory half surrounded by water, -and embowered in shade. Here the pair sat on the edge of a low wall, -overlooking the lake, and carried on a lively discussion,--of which -Mrs. Ffinch was the subject. Nancy did gallant battle for her friend, -and patroness, and spoke with enthusiasm of her generosity and kindness -of heart. - -"Of course I am not denying old Julia a few good qualities; I've known -her since I was a kid,"--and Sir Dudley unkindly added--"she's four -or five years older than I am.--I remember her in the nursery, a big, -overbearing girl, _very_ stingy with jam. In those days the Hillsides -were terribly hard up, and had a large family. Ju Lamerton was a -sensible young woman, with no romantic nonsense about her, and she made -room for her sisters, by marrying the biggest bore in the whole of -India." - -"Well, at any rate, they seem quite happy." - -"_Seem_," repeated Sir Dudley; "that's her cleverness; she manages him. -She manages everyone! She married off Emma and Mabel, and last time -she came home, got a lout of a brother, into a capital sinecure." Then -turning to look at Nancy, he added--"I wonder she didn't try her hand -on _you_,--but I suppose you were too young?" - -Nancy felt herself colouring up to the roots of her hair, and carried -off the suggestion with a rather embarrassed laugh. - -"I expect you had all the young planters on their knees, young as you -were? Come now, own up, strictly between ourselves! How many scalps did -you bring home?" - -"Not one," she answered, with decision, "we were just good friends, -like you and I,--nothing more." - -"I am delighted we are good friends," murmured Villars; and after this -sentence, there fell a strange and dreamy silence. The surrounding -scene was exquisite, the beauty of Italy's lake land, tinged with -a kind of roseate romance. Above them to the left, towered hills, -clothed with olive and chestnut woods; at their feet gently lapped the -jade-green water of the lake. The glow of a wonderful sunset touched -the quiet landscape, and the only sound that recalled one to a workaday -world, was the chime of the Angelus, stealing across from San Giovanni. - -The stillness and solitude, had a compelling effect upon Villars; -turning to Nancy, he said abruptly, "I must speak! Here is the hour, -and the place! I want to tell you, that I have not had such a happy -time, as this last five weeks--for many a long, long year. Nancy, may -I call you Nancy?--everyone does, and Miss Travers sounds so formal! -I may, may I not?"--as Nancy made no reply, but nervously twisted a -rose between her fingers. He moved an inch or two nearer, and in a low, -seductive voice continued: "There is no one to object,--is there?" - -"No one," she answered, raising her head, and meeting his burning dark -eyes, with a flash of pride. He gazed at her critically and in silence. -What a darling she was! From the very first he had been enthralled by -her high spirits, _entrain_, and beauty; here, he assured himself, was -the perfect treasure for which he had vainly sought; and in many and -far lands. He had made this discovery on former occasions,--but the -prize had eluded him, or proved a bitter disappointment. Close beside -him, twirling a red rose in her taper fingers, sat his one, and only -love. - -If that devil Cassandra, would but divorce him, here was her -successor,--the future Lady Villars! But Cassandra, the most obstinate -and malignant of her sex, was adamant; hitherto, his appeals, prayers, -threats, and flagrant indiscretions had failed to move her. This was -her revenge; she refused to release him! - -Something in this long and unusual silence, filled the girl with a -sense of vague uneasiness: and this uneasiness was not dispelled, when -her companion broke the long pause, with the startling question: "May I -kiss you, darling?" His voice was very humble and pleading, but there -was a smouldering fire, in his melancholy dark eyes. - -"Certainly not," she answered sharply. - -"But why?" urged Villars, moving still nearer, "since we are such -friends?" - -"Because I should hate it," she declared decisively. - -"_Une jeunesse sans amour, est comme un matin sans soleil_," he quoted. -"I suppose no man has ever touched those perfect lips?" - -Nancy tossed the rose away, but made no reply: she was feeling -excessively uncomfortable. - -"So you know nothing about it, darling little girl?" he went on. "No -one has ever yet drawn your soul through in one long kiss! Listen to -_me_, Nancy," and he made an effort to take her hand. "Won't you make -room for a very lonely fellow in your heart? You _would_, if you only -knew how miserable his life has been." - -Nancy slipped down off the low wall, and stood erect, surveying her -companion with a heightened colour, and irrepressible tears glistening -in her eyes. She had received a tremendous shock, and felt a horrible -impression of degradation, and insecurity. - -"Sir Dudley, please don't talk to me in this way. I," and she gulped -down an inclination to burst into tears, "I--I don't like it!" - -Then with a desperate snatch at her ebbing self-possession, she added: -"Will you be so kind as to signal for the boat?" - -"Horrified! frightened! affronted! easy to see _she's_ new to the -situation," he said to himself. "I must go slow, _chi va sano--va -lontano_. I've been a bit of an ass, but the sunset and the Angelus -were too much for me." - -"You know I wouldn't offend you for the whole world," he murmured, as -in strained self-consciousness they awaited the boat. "Only forgive -me for this once! One never can tell. Most girls like admiration, and -kisses--I see you are different." - -Nancy made no reply, but picked up her red Lugano umbrella, and got -into the boat, without a word. - -"She has taken the little scene seriously," he said to himself, as he -looked at her set profile, and it was now his turn to be uneasy, and -alarmed! Supposing she were to go and lodge a long complaint with Aunty -De Wolfe? He must make his peace before they returned to the hotel. -Accordingly on their way there, with all the eloquence, cleverness, -and guile of a well-experienced diplomatist in emotion, he pleaded -with his companion, for forgiveness; his misery and regrets appeared -to be so acute, that they touched her sensitive feelings, and cooled -her indignation. How _could_ she withstand, the tears that stood in his -wonderful eyes? - -Notwithstanding this patched up peace, Mrs. De Wolfe might have noticed -a certain constraint, between her young companions that evening, and -there was no singing,--but as it happened, the mind of their chaperon -was occupied with a recent interview, and the old lady was happily -unconscious of any cloud. - - - - - CHAPTER XXIII - - A WARNING - - -Among Mrs. De Wolfe's friends at Bellaggio, was a certain lady, known -to her intimates as "Sally Horne," a well endowed, unencumbered widow -of sixty; her daughter was married to an Indian official, her son was -quartered in Cairo,--and her London house was let! She and her maid -were staying at the "Victoria," where she had many acquaintances, and -vainly endeavoured to inveigle Mrs. De Wolfe to cross the water, and -establish herself in her company,--but Mrs. De Wolfe declining the lure -of Bridge, preferred to remain where she was! - -The afternoon that Nancy and Sir Dudley set out to sketch the -Baptistery, Mrs. Horne came over to see her friend. The old lady was -sitting in the little garden by the lake, and recognizing her visitor -on the boat, hastened to meet, and welcome her. - -"Would you like to go inside, Sally?" she asked, "or shall we have tea -out here?" - -"I've had tea, thank you," said Mrs. Horne, "but by all means let us -sit outside. Where's your girl?" she inquired, looking round, and her -air was inquisitorial. - -"Gone up to Lenno to finish a sketch." - -"With Sir Dudley?" - -Mrs. De Wolfe nodded a careless assent. After a moment's hesitation -this bold visitor announced: "I have something disagreeable to say to -you, Elizabeth." - -"You needn't tell me that!" rejoined her companion, with a grim smile, -"I saw it in your face, before you came off the boat." - -"I wonder if I shall make you very angry!" - -"_Try_," said Mrs. De Wolfe; the word was a challenge, "I've not been -in a good wholesome rage for ages." - -"Well, it's about Nancy, and Sir Dudley Villars.--People are talking." - -"Bah!" ejaculated Mrs. De Wolfe, "let them talk!" - -"But do please listen, my dear! I am fond of Nancy, and I can't bear to -hear it said, that she is being compromised." - -"Compromised," shouted Mrs. De Wolfe. "What nonsense! What infamous -scandal." - -"Yes, it's all over my hotel, and only this morning, as we sat in the -garden, Lady MacBullet, said she was sorry for Miss Travers; such a -pretty young creature, and she understood an orphan, making herself so -cheap and conspicuous, with a man of the character of Dudley Villars. -They were on the lake together all day,--and the hotel was full of -stories." - -"Only cat women's gossip,--I know the style! I'm sure the men don't -talk of Dudley's character! Men are not gossips!" - -"Oh! and why not; what about men's clubs?" - -"Well, I've never heard a _man_, say anything against Dudley." - -"No, because he is straight enough with _them_, I believe;--both rich -and generous. For women, he has a different code! Elizabeth, I know -you are devoted to Dudley Villars,--and although an old grandmother, -I am not altogether insensible to his fascinations, _myself_! When he -chooses, he can be irresistible, so do pray imagine the spell he can -cast over an impressionable young girl like Nancy?" - -"_No_ spell has been cast," protested her friend, sharply, "and really -I'm surprised at you, Sally, taking the trouble to come over here, and -tell me your hotel was talking scandal. Dudley Villars is my godson, I -have absolute confidence in him you may be sure, or I would never have -suffered him to be the continual companion of Nancy." - -"Well, at least I meant well," said Mrs. Horne, stiffly, "and my good -intention must be its own reward. I like Nancy, otherwise I wouldn't -have bothered." Then rising, "I see the Tremezzo boat coming in, and I -will go back in her!" - -"No indeed, Sally," pulling her down, "you will do nothing of the sort. -I'm an ungrateful, ungracious old harridan, and I'm sincerely obliged -to you for your interest in Nancy. I confess, that I have never seen -anything but the best side of Dudley; I believe, and I feel in my -bones,--that he has behaved most honourably, with regard to the girl; -not one indiscreet word has he spoken! _That_ I can guarantee; and -she is not susceptible! Every scrap of love in her heart was absorbed -by her father, and since his death, I do not think she has much to -spare for anyone. Dudley and Nancy are good friends, and no more. I've -allowed them a little extra liberty, to go sketching and boating, not -knowing that _every_ eye was fixed upon them! I have already told -you, I trust Dudley, and as for the girl, before she ever saw him, I -informed her that he was a married man." - -"Sometimes that makes no difference," remarked her companion. - -"Oh! my dear Sally, I'm afraid you are getting infected; let me again -assure you, that Dudley's friendship with Nancy, is entirely platonic!" - -"Then, my dear Elizabeth, it's something entirely new for Dudley -Villars," and Mrs. Horne, imparted to a reluctant ear, a brief account -of one or two affairs of which he was the hero. - -"I suppose you haven't heard that the Bellamys are separated on his -account, and Daisy Bellamy has gone home to her mother?" - -"_I've_ never believed that Dudley was responsible for that business! -still I'm afraid, Sally, that I've been a little slack as a chaperon; -so I'll put an end to the talk, by taking the girl on to Florence." - -"A very wise move, my dear, and I sincerely hope it will not be a case -of 'locking the stable door, when the steed is stolen.'" - -"No indeed! _my_ palfrey is safe. Nancy is heartwhole. I am getting -rather tired of the lake, and am such a well-known old tramp, that when -I bundle off at a couple of days' notice, it never excites remark." - -"Do you think that Dudley Villars will make his way there too?" - -"No," rejoined his champion with decision, "for although it is a -perfectly harmless friendship, I draw the line at followers." - -After the boat had carried her visitor away, Mrs. De Wolfe remained for -a long time buried in profound meditation; then she rose, went into the -hotel, despatched a prepaid wire to Florence, and give notice of her -intending departure. - -The next morning as the little party were at _déjeuner_, Mrs. De Wolfe -received a telegram. Having read it, she laid it aside and said: "Well -that's all right, we have got our rooms! Nancy, prepare to march on -Florence, the day after to-morrow!" - -"You are not serious!" exclaimed Sir Dudley, setting down an untasted -glass. - -"Perfectly serious, I wonder that I was not away long before this! My -campaigns, like Napoleon's, are rapidly organized." - -"But _you_ have no campaign." - -"No! but what about Nancy?" - -"Beginning with this forced march, Auntie Wolfe, I wonder you can -exchange this lovely clear air, for the gloomy streets of Florence." - -Mrs. De Wolfe laughed, and said: "I am tired of looking out on water; -in my hotel, which is not on the Lung' Arno, I can lie at my ease in a -comfortable bed, and stare at the Duomo; think of that!" - -Dudley realized how foolish it was to argue with Auntie Wolfe at -present, but when Nancy had departed to give instructions to her maid, -and the old lady was alone, he said: - -"Why are you going off so suddenly?" - -An unwelcome idea flashed into his brain. Could Nancy have confided in -her chaperon? - -"To a plain question, I'll give you a plain answer, my dear boy. There -are two kinds of discretion: one voluntary; the other enforced. I find -that people have begun to notice that you and my little girl are very -much together, and although it is a most innocent friendship, still it -does not do for Nancy to be talked about, so we will remove ourselves." - -"What an infernal shame," exclaimed her godson, looking surprisingly -vexed. "The venomous tongues of some devils wouldn't leave an angel -alone." - -"And you, my dear Dudley, are by all accounts, far from being an -angel!--I have heard some sad tales." - -"Which of course you don't believe! Have you ever known me to play -the fool with any of your friends?" He paused for a reply. As none -was forthcoming he continued, "I cannot tell you what a happy time I -have put in here. You know I always feel so much at home with you, -dear Auntie Wolfe!" and he stooped and kissed her on her cheek. Then, -straightening himself, he said, as if struck by a bright idea: "I've -not been in Florence for a couple of years,--I believe I'll run down -there next week." - -"_No_, Dudley," protested his godmother, raising her thin old hand, -"_that_ I positively forbid. You will see us in town,--and later at -the Court, but abroad, no more! It is so easy to be conspicuous in a -small do-nothing circle, and I'm sure you are quite as sensitive about -Nancy's reputation--though that is too big a word--as I am myself." - -During the remaining two days, Dudley's manner to Nancy was perfect, -and entirely of the kindly elder brother type. He gave her sketches of -their favourite spots, supplied her with books for the journey, and -went all the way to Como, to put the ladies and their parcels into the -train, himself. Then returned down the lake alone, in a condition of -most abject misery. For days he walked and boated in the neighbourhood -of Cadenabbia; a melancholy object of picturesque dejection. Those who -witnessed and marked this change, said to one another, "Dudley Villars -has been badly hit this time; serves him jolly well right!" He wrote -cheerful (and exchangeable) letters to both ladies, giving them to -understand, that he was excessively gay, and well occupied. - -But do what he would, he could not get Nancy out of his head; however -he consoled himself with the belief, that time and persistence would -be his staunch allies. And how he longed to see her! Sometimes -this longing overpowered him, and he nearly drove Antonio crazy by -his conflicting, and capricious orders. Twice, he arranged to go to -Florence, twice, he changed his mind; at last, he positively took his -departure. Was not Florence free to all the world?--Auntie Wolfe's -attitude implied that she had it on lease,--and even if he only saw -Nancy in a church, a picture gallery, or the street,--that would be -something! - -On his arrival in the city of flowers, he boldly drove direct to Mrs. -De Wolfe's hotel; and here he had the mortification of learning, that -"the Signora and the Signorina, had left that morning for Palermo!" - - * * * * * - -From Sicily, the ever wandering Mrs. De Wolfe, took ship for Egypt, -where she put up at the Savoy Hotel, Cairo; here she discovered her -friend, Mrs. Horne, already established, and heard that all the Miller -party were at the Mena House. - -"Six months' travelling had wrought a surprising change in her family," -as Billy explained to her friend Nancy,--to whom she paid an immediate -visit. - -"I declare we are so altered, you will hardly recognize any of our -party,--except myself. There is the Pater, he has cut off his little -side whiskers, and wears up-to-date collars, and looks years younger; -he plays golf, is very keen about excursions, and actually dances at -our hotel balls! He has met crowds of old friends, and has come out -of his shell in a most remarkable manner. Then mother has floated to -the surface. She now goes about with us; dresses very smartly, has -taken madly to Bridge, and can ride a donkey with the best. I think it -was Minna's engagement that aroused her from her torpor. She was so -immensely interested in a love affair at first hand! Minna is making -a splendid match, and we _all_ love Major Brently; he has become our -brother, and what he calls, 'wheels us into line'; and is awfully good -to us. Mother having, to use a sporting expression 'tasted blood,' has -now great hopes of Brenda; and many people consider Baby, our beauty! -The fact is, what with this inspiring climate, heaps of new friends, a -whirl of excitement and amusement, our existence has been quickened, -and we don't know ourselves, we are so happy!" - -"Then your exodus has been a wonderful success! What a triumph for -_you_, Billy? No one now dare call you 'Silly Billy!'" - -"Yes, it has turned out all right, and even if nothing particular had -occurred,--like Minna's engagement,--we would have had enough to think -and talk about, for years. As it is, we have souvenirs to fill a room, -and thousands of picture postcards; have enlarged our ideas, and made -many friends,--even mother has her pals." - -"You like Egypt, I can see," said Nancy. - -"I just love it, the sand, the delicious desert air, the cloudless -blue sky, and then Cairo itself. You and I must go about together, -Nancy. I've been here six weeks, and am getting quite clever at finding -my way, and making bargains. I can even talk a little Arabic. I have -collected ever so many presents for the people at home." - -"I am sure you have," said Nancy; "how I wish that I had people at -home, I could take presents to." - -"Oh! that will all come in time, my dear. Do tell me, have you come -across any interesting young men?" - -"Yes, several; good dancers and tennis players, but not otherwise -specially engaging." - -"You don't appear to have lost your heart?" - -"No, I don't believe I've _that_ sort of heart to lose." - -"It remains to be seen. When I've married off my three sisters--I'll -see about settling you." - -"Thank you, Billy." - -"And talking of settling, I wonder how father and the Mum will content -themselves at home, after this gay and giddy whirl about the world?" - -"They won't settle; they will be continually on the move. I warn you, -that you have started an avalanche." - -"A good thing I did! better than being an iceberg all one's days. By -the way, I hear you have done some exquisite water-colours of Como; do -show them to me." - -"Oh! how good!" she exclaimed, after Nancy had displayed her -treasures,--artfully keeping the best to the last-- - -"Nancy, these are quite top-hole,--who taught you?" - -"I had a good master at school, but a friend of Mrs. De Wolfe's, who -was at Cadenabbia, gave me lessons. We went out sketching together, -almost every day." - -"With a chaperon, of course?" - -Nancy shook her head. - -"Who was he; had he a name?" - -"Certainly he had! Sir Dudley Villars." - -"Oh! Some call him 'Prince Charming,' others, 'a Deadly villain.' -He is not very young,--but so handsome, isn't he? and a merciless -lady-killer." - -"Well, here am I, alive and well, so you see he has spared _me_," said -Nancy, who had almost forgotten a certain conversation which had taken -place on the low wall, by the Villa Aconati. - - * * * * * - -Cairo is said to be the most typical Eastern city in the world, and it -appealed very strongly to Nancy Travers. The palm trees, the dark faces -of a gesticulating voluble throng, the dense blue sky, the warm and -golden sun, in some ways recalled India. In February Cairo is socially -at its gayest. Nancy and her chaperon were in flattering request. - -However, it was not society, but this land of tombs, temples and a -river, that engrossed her interest, and fired her warm imagination. -One afternoon, towards the end of her stay, as Mrs. De Wolfe and Nancy -drove out to the Mena House, behind a dashing pair of long-tailed -Arabs, as they sped along Ismail's road, the old lady discussed her -plans. - -"I must give you a bit of the season, Nancy, and you shall be presented -at a May Court." - -"Oh! no, no, please no!" - -"Well, you know, you will have to make your curtsey to your sovereign, -some time! Shall we say on your marriage?" - -Nancy made no immediate reply, but the cheek nearest to her friend, was -unusually pink--Why? She appeared to be engrossed in watching a long -string of clumsy, heavily-laden camels. Nothing to blush at there! - -"After June, we will go down to the Court," resumed Mrs. De Wolfe; "it -is such a dear old place, you will love it." - -"How can you desert it, as you do?" - -"That is what my neighbours ask, but I don't mind their remonstrances, -I yield to the _Wanderlust_. The Court is too large for one old woman, -and though I am attached to it,--it holds agonizing memories, and I -cannot endure it, unless it is packed,--so to speak,--to the roof, -when my guests and their doings monopolize my attention, and distract -my thoughts from the long illness, and death of my dear husband, the -parting with my two sons,--who never came back to me. One was killed -at Magersfontein, the other died of typhoid in India. The Court is full -of reminders, of Freddy, and Hugh. Their bedrooms, with their personal -belongings, are precisely as they left them, with their pictures, -books, birds' eggs, and butterflies. The gardens they worked in, are -still kept up, and planted with their favourite flowers; their old -pony, Barkis, only died two years ago, at an immense age. I often ask -myself, why the lives of those two promising young men should be cut -short? and a useless old woman, their mother, still cumbers the ground?" - -To this question Nancy--who had a large lump in her throat--could make -no reply, and there fell a long silence. - -"I wonder what you see in me, my dear?" began Mrs. De Wolfe suddenly. -"My life is now behind me, you are young and stand upon its -threshold,--a radiant, and expectant figure." - -"Radiant! I'm afraid not; you are too partial, and as for -expectations--they are strictly moderate." - -"That at least is something. On the _Patna_, they were positively nil. -Poor forlorn child, I took pity upon you, as I would on a drowning -kitten!" - -"You did," assented the girl, with laughing eyes, "and here I am on -your hands, a full-grown young cat!" - -"Claws and all complete, a most formidable responsibility! Well, I -threw you a plank and brought you to land,--some of these days I may -float you off again, upon the sea of matrimony." - -"No, no, dear Auntie Wolf," laying her hand on hers, "I'm very happy as -I am,--please don't dream of such a thing." - -"Well, if I do not,--others will. Ah, there are Sir Lucas and Major -Horne, waiting for us," she added, as they turned into the garden, and -dashed up the entrance of Mena House. "I wonder if the Millers have -secured their cabins in our steamer?" - -"I think so, and you will find Major Horne will be of the party,--I -have a presentiment, that he hopes to marry Billy." - - - - - CHAPTER XXIV - - A LITTLE DINNER FOR THREE - - -The end of April found Mrs. De Wolfe and her protégée in London, -installed in a fine suite at the Hyde Park Hotel. The position suited -the old lady, as here she was surrounded by connections and friends. -There was her sister-in-law in Park Lane, her niece in Belgrave Square, -the Hillsides within a stone's throw, and the Millers in Pont Street. -She and her young companion were soon sought out, and overwhelmed with -invitations, and Nancy lived in a whirl of agreeable engagements. - -First an early ride in the Park, then the morning shopping; luncheon -parties, receptions, dinners, and above all, dances! Spare moments -were devoted to "fittings," and hurried visits to girl friends.--These -various claims, literally devoured the long summer days.--Nancy -was very gay and happy in this new life, a conspicuous figure in -her immediate circle! admired in private, stared at in public, and -favoured with yet another gift besides beauty, and youth. Wherever -she went, she appeared to bring sunshine; and those who knew her, -revelled in her endowment. Among her chief partners and cavaliers -were, Sir Dudley Villars, Major Cathcart--now enjoying a nice soft -staff appointment--Toby Lamerton, Lord Lanark, and various others too -numerous to mention. - -Soon after her arrival in London, Nancy had reported herself in Queen's -Gate, and waited upon her aunt,--unsupported by her good friend, Mrs. -De Wolfe. Mrs. Jenkins' little blue eyes opened to their widest extent, -when they beheld her niece, no longer a shrinking and humble satellite, -but a self-possessed, well-dressed, and independent damsel. - -As her envious glance wandered over an elegant toilet, she realized -that this "bird of paradise" would be entirely out of place, in her -own ordinary "Hen Run." It was evident that the girl had a good maid, -and a good conceit of herself; she resolved to secure Nancy for a -visit,--which would include at least, two state dinners,--in order that -her own friends should have an opportunity of beholding a niece whose -success and striking appearance, would add to her own importance. - -Mrs. Taylor and Miss Dolling happened to be both in attendance,--the -one as faded and sentimental, the other aggressive, and glum--as of -old. At the end of twenty minutes' conversation,--chiefly questions and -answers,--Miss Dolling rose, and said, "I'll just go and fetch the Pom, -I'm sure he'd love to see Nancy." - -"And I'm sure he wouldn't recognize her _now_," said Mrs. Taylor, with -significance, and for once Mrs. Taylor happened to be right. The Pom -merely sniffed indifferently at Nancy's smart gown, and then rudely -retired into his comfortable padded basket. - -"And how is the Coffee?" inquired Mrs. Jenkins, in a condescending -manner. - -"Oh, doing well. One of my old friends has taken over the management; -and gold has been found on the estate." - -"Gold? well I never!" ejaculated Miss Dolling. "Fancy owning a gold -mine!" - -"It's a reef, I believe," explained Nancy, "and has been taken over by -a company." - -"So you're _quite_ a millionaire," remarked her aunt, rather sourly. -"And what are your plans for the summer?" - -"We are going down to Mrs. De Wolfe's place, Newenham Court--later on." - -"Oh, so she _has_ a place; I always understood, that she lived in -hotels and steamers, and had no home?" - -"She found it so lonely, living all by herself." - -"Then why not have a companion?" demanded Mrs. Taylor, "goodness knows -they are cheap enough!" - -"She has a companion now,--she has _me_," declared Nancy with a smile. - -"Oh, _you_!" with an impatient sniff, "you won't last her long; young -women with money, are soon snapped up. You'll marry within six months." - -"I assure you, I shall _not_." - -"Ah, that is how girls always talk," broke in Miss Dolling, "I used to -say the very same things myself; you have yet to meet your fate," and -she heaved a heavy sigh, as with her head on one side, she dreamily -contemplated Nancy,--the daughter of her one, and only love! - -Before the visitor took leave, she was invited, nay, almost commanded, -to come and stay at Queen's Gate. This invitation she firmly, but very -civilly declined. Mrs. De Wolfe could not possibly spare her. - -"Well," said Mrs. Jenkins, looking alarmingly pink and angry, "I do -think your own aunt has a claim before _strangers_; I shall expect you -to give me at least a week." - -But the niece of her own aunt proved to be adamant, and submitted a -long, and imposing list of her engagements. She, however, consented -to appear at a dinner-party,--the date of which Mrs. Jenkins, diary -in hand, fixed so far ahead, that excuse or evasion, was out of the -question. - -One Sunday afternoon Nancy, and a party of friends, betook themselves -to the Park, chaperoned by Mrs. De Wolfe and Lord Hillside. The usual -rendezvous near Stanhope Gate, was crowded, and the promenade bordering -the grass, so thronged that progress was difficult. Nancy and Tony -Lamerton lagged somewhat in the rear of their companions, and during -a block in the seething mass, she descried a face she hadn't seen -for more than two years: the beaming visage of Teddy Dawson, wearing -a wide smile upon his half-open mouth. Oh, how funny he looked! His -coat sleeves and trousers, inches too short; an old-fashioned tall -hat crammed on the back of his head, otherwise the same blue-eyed old -Teddy. Nancy instantly extended a delicately gloved hand, but instead -of grasping it (as expected), he failed to recognize a friend in this -smart young lady, and became the colour of a boiled beetroot. - -"There must be some mistake," he said to himself, "_he_ had no -acquaintance with this dazzling creature, who had so to speak, summoned -him to halt,"--but when Nancy smiled at his overpowering embarrassment, -and he looked into her eyes, he exclaimed, "Great Christmas, can it be -_Nancy_?" - -"Why not?" she demanded. "Of course it's Nancy." - -The pair were unaffectedly glad to meet, and exchanged very cordial -greetings. - -"When did you arrive?" she asked. "Yesterday?" - -"Now, how in the world did you guess?" - -"By your wardrobe; Jessie will have to take you in hand." - -"Oh, so you've heard!" he replied, with a conscious grin. "My coming -home was a bit sudden; but at the very last moment I got a passage in -the same boat, with Jess, and her mother. Where are you stopping?" - -"At present, we are _both_ stopping the public thoroughfare,--but you -will find me at the Hyde Park Hotel. I've no end of things to hear, and -to say to you. Will you and Jessie come and dine to-morrow night at -eight?" - -"I can't answer for Jess,--I believe she has no frocks yet, but I'll -come all right." - -"Don't be late," and with a parting nod, she drifted on. - -"I say! that's a rum-looking chap," said Tony. "Did you ever see such -boots?--like coal boxes, and what a hat! no gloves, hands the size of a -ham,--where on earth did you get hold of him?" - -"In India, he was our nearest neighbour; I've known him since I was in -socks. He is one of the best; something quite extra! You mustn't judge -him by his clothes! If you had put in ten years on a coffee estate, -perhaps you wouldn't be so _very_ smart yourself!" - -"Perhaps not! Well, I hope when Jessie has got her frocks, she will do -something for him, poor chap! His coat would be a find for the wardrobe -of our regimental theatre. Is _he_ a specimen of the men you met out in -India?" - -"He is a specimen of a successful planter, a first-rate sportsman, -and a real friend. He was like a kind elder brother, when I was in -frightful trouble. Well!" in a totally different voice--"there are Mrs. -De Wolfe and Sir Dudley beckoning--I do hope, they have kept us chairs!" - -"Mr. Edward Dawson," as announced in Mrs. De Wolfe's sitting-room, -arrived to dine, alone, bringing a long epistle from Jessie, who was -staying in West Kensington, with some of her mother's relatives. Teddy -had invested in a new black tie and a pair of shiny shoes, and looked -quite passable when presented to Mrs. De Wolfe,--who gave him a cordial -reception. She knew all about him,--and had even read his letters! - -The two ladies, who were "going on" to a ball, were in full dress; -Nancy so transformed and lovely, that Teddie could scarcely take his -eyes from her. His surprise and bewilderment were such, that several -times, he entirely forgot what he was going to say, and blundered -about, with spoons and helpings, as if he had never dined in company -before! He and Nancy had much to discuss, and he spoke freely and -openly before the "old lady," as he mentally called her. - -"I must confess, I wonder how you got round Finchie?" said Nancy. - -"Oh, you mean about Jess? You see she was away up in Cashmere, and -the mice played about! She declares that Jessie's mad,--and that I'm -a savage and belong to the Stone Age; but Jessie stood up for me and -said, 'At any rate, he is a rock of sense.' Rather smart, eh?" - -"Yes," agreed Mrs. De Wolfe. - -"And then the General, that's my father," he explained to the old lady, -"has come forward nobly, and is going shares in the rent of Fairplains; -he and I, will be your tenants, Nance." - -"Yes, and I shall go out and stay with Jessie and you, for such -ages,--that you'll be obliged to leave home!" - -"And what about the gold?" inquired Mrs. De Wolfe. - -"I believe it's paying hand over fist. Nancy, you will remember Nicky -always swore that there was gold in those old workings. I thought it a -fairy tale, but when some engineer chaps came sniffing round for reefs, -Nicky put them on, and went down with them himself. The gold was all -right, and he has stuffed several thousands a year, into your pocket. -Mind you don't forget _that_!" - -"You may be sure I won't.--And so he is staying on at the Corner?" - -Teddy nodded. - -"Alone?" Her tone was significant. - -"I don't think so! Perhaps you can guess the name of the new partner? -By the way," lowering his voice, as he noted that Mrs. De Wolfe was -absorbed in the menu, "what about that chap?" ... name indistinct, to -the sharp-eared chaperon. "Do you ever hear anything of him?" - -"Never!" was the emphatic reply. - -Mrs. De Wolfe waited to hear more, and continued to stare steadily at -the word "asparagus." "He pays in the money for you to the day; it is -lying in my name at Grindlays--about six hundred pounds." - -The anxious matron felt immensely relieved; of course the money, had -to do with _coffee_. She laid down the card, and glanced over at -Nancy,--never had she seen her with so high a colour; and yet it was -not a warm evening, and the girl hadn't touched anything stronger -than barley water. Nancy, too, had violently assailed her with her -foot. Why? She was not aware that she had made a social blunder, or -_faux pas_; and how the girl chattered! Undoubtedly these tidings and -reminiscences, and "Plain tales from the hills," had excited her, and -made her rather odd and unlike herself! - - - - - CHAPTER XXV - - THE MEDITATIONS OF DEREK MAYNE - - -The cable dispatched to Mayne, had been so urgent and alarming, that -he half expected to hear bad news when the mail steamer called at -Port Said,--however, neither cable nor letter awaited him. Arriving -in London early one May morning, he drove up to his mother's house in -Charles Street,--intending to ask for news and a meal. The door was -opened by a somewhat dishevelled footman, who informed him that "her -ladyship was out of town." - -"But was I not expected?" inquired the caller, glancing at his -luggage-laden taxi, "I am Captain Mayne." - -"Oh yes, sir, you were ex_pected_, but her ladyship said as 'ow you -couldn't possibly be here before Monday, and she and his lordship has -gone down to Brighton for the week-end." - -This was but a tepid welcome after an absence of some years; however, -there was nothing for Mayne to do, but re-enter the cab and have -himself driven to his club. Here, he encountered various old friends, -lunched, paid a hasty visit to his tailor, bought an umbrella, and took -the afternoon express to Campfield, the nearest station to Maynesfort. - -Maynesfort was a venerable, but well preserved Jacobean house (with -artfully hidden Georgian patches), and stood amidst delightful and -rural surroundings. On the south side, lay a prim Dutch garden, -beyond that, an undulating heavily wooded park,--both overlooked by -the windows of a once famous library. This library was now the chief -reception room; ever since the death of Mrs. Mayne, the drawing-rooms -had been closed! - -Here, the master of the house received his guests and tenants, here he -smoked, gossiped and read the newspapers--_The Times_, _The Field_, -_Country Life_, and with special avidity, the local Rag,--but he -never opened a book,--although encompassed by thousands of neglected -volumes.--He was not, as he boastfully declared, "a reading man." -"Jorrocks" was his favourite hero; his, was an outdoor temperament; -hunting, shooting, gardening, and farming were all to his taste; and -the house was merely a sort of refuge, where he ate, and slept; four -weeks' incarceration indoors, was to him an unexampled experience. On -a lounge in the library, surrounded by a volume of tobacco smoke, and -attended by a buxom nurse, the invalid was found by his nephew and heir. - -Richard Mayne, J.P. and D.L., was a remarkably active little man, some -years over seventy; he had keen dark eyes, flexible brows, a firm, -clean shaven mouth, and a pleasant smile. The arrival of his nephew, -afforded him real and unqualified pleasure, and he greeted him with -outstretched hands, and a full resonant voice--by no means the feeble -squeak of an invalid.--"Got your wire this morning, sent the car, glad -to see you, my boy--very glad!" - -"And how are you, Uncle Dick? you look fairly fit. Going on all right, -eh, nurse!" glancing at his companion. - -"Yes, Mr. Mayne has made a remarkable recovery," she rejoined, "I -expect in a few weeks, he will be quite out of my hands," and she rose -and retired, leaving the uncle and nephew to themselves. - -"It's the healthy outdoor life, eh, 'um, 'um, that's what has stood to -me--but I tell you, when that brute rolled on me, I thought it was a -case for the undertaker! - -"Yes," assented his nephew, "from that cable, I was afraid you were in -a bad way, Uncle Dick, and I'm awfully glad to find you so well." - -"We wrote to Port Said to tell you I was going on all right,--but I -daresay we missed the mail. You are looking uncommonly fit, not a bit -yellow or tucked up! India has taken no toll off _you_: good stations, -good sport, 'um, 'um?" - -After such a long absence from home, there was much for Mayne to hear, -and for his uncle to impart; the old gentleman was a fluent talker, -and enchanted to get hold of a listener, to whom all his news was -absolutely fresh. He was ten times more anxious to relate, than to -listen, and unfolded a heavy budget,--without displaying any curiosity -as to what the traveller might have to offer in exchange? - -First, there were the full details of his accident,--including the -weather, the condition of the ground, the character, and pedigree of -the horse; then came "the case," the doctors, the specialist, and a -warm eulogium of his nurses. After this, the county news; succeeded by -estate and domestic intelligence; who had come, and who had gone, how -the pheasants had done; how the great fig tree was dead,--also the hen -swan, and the old woman at the west lodge. - -Mayne found the place but little changed--everything in the same -apple-pie order. Maynesfort was his uncle's hobby, he loved the old -place with an absorbing passion,--and to tell the truth found her a -very extravagant mistress! A series of reckless predecessors, had -dissipated and gambled away the property, till but about a thousand -acres remained; and although the owner lived, so to speak, rent free, -there was much to maintain; the ancient house like its kind, was in -constant want of repair; the drains, the roof, the chimneys, called for -outlay, and supervision; the gardens, greenhouses, and avenues, had to -be kept up,--as Maynesfort had a reputation to support, and there were -no nice fat farms, to bring in a steady revenue. - -The late Mrs. Mayne, had been a woman of fortune, and her money -had assisted to maintain Maynesfort, as a sort of show place.--Its -mullioned windows and heavy chimney stacks, were a great feature on the -local post cards. - -As the long May days went by, the heir of Maynesfort found time to hang -heavily on his hands,--although he successfully concealed the fact. -There was no shooting, except a few pigeon of an evening; naturally -there was no hunting, he was not a fisherman; most of the neighbours -were in London for the season, and the Parsonage was in quarantine -with scarlet fever. Mayne rode about the lanes on an elderly cob, -strolled through the park and gardens, played cricket with the village -team,--but still the days were long and empty. - -He read the papers to his uncle, played dominoes and backgammon, and -even "cut-throat" Bridge with him and the nurse. He smoked many pipes, -and listened to many stories: descriptions of the season's good runs, -and best days' shooting. - -Strange to say, the old gentleman exhibited but little or no interest -in Indian sport,--nor wished to hear, in what way his nephew had passed -the last four years? It was sufficient for him to know that he was -there, sitting opposite to him, looking a little older,--but both hale, -and hearty. - -Richard Mayne was a man of one idea at a time,--but that idea, excluded -all others, and would occasionally hold the fort of his mind for -months. His present obsession, was, that Mayne should, could, and -must, marry,--and that without delay. At first his nephew had put -the suggestion aside with a joke, and a laugh; but he soon realized -that indifference and frivolity raised his uncle's ire; the flexible -eyebrows went up and down, or met, alarmingly; the "'um, 'um, 'ums" -came thick, and fast,--he resigned himself to the situation, and -suffered the old gentleman to talk and talk, and even to arrange a -formal, and imaginary parade of all the available spinsters in the -county! - -"You see, my dear boy," he urged, "that time, when I was lying on my -back, and they were not quite sure, if I was internally injured, I -could not help thinking of this dear old place,--and its new master." - -"What nonsense, Uncle Dick," protested Mayne, "you will be master here -for years, and years." - -"No, no," waving away the idea, "if I'd snuffed out, you would have -had to come back, and take over my shoes, and sit here all alone; no -mistress for the house; so I made up my mind, that if I recovered, I'd -take right good care to see you _married_; married to some nice girl -with money; family not so important, you have enough family for both! -Now tell me, Derek, is there any young woman, you have a fancy for?" - -"No, not one." - -"Well, then, my dear boy, you must look round, now you are at home, and -find a pretty girl, with a pretty fortune, that will keep the old place -on its legs,--otherwise it might have to be _let_, and if that came to -pass, I believe I'd come out of the family vault! You know your aunt's -money goes back to her own people; the property itself is not worth -much. There is the grazing, and the woods, and Jones sells some of the -garden stuff, but the men's wages and coal and coke, run into hundreds -a year; our gambling ancestors staked farms and livings, and fishing -rights on the length of a straw, or the activity of a snail, and I tell -you, my blood boils when I think of them!" - -"To marry, to look out for a nice girl with money," was the "motive," -which, like the ever recurring air in an opera, ran through all Mr. -Mayne's jokes, reminiscences, and solemn exhortations to his nephew; -the subject became intolerable; his good nature and patience were -wearing a little thin, and it was an immense relief to escape into the -park of an afternoon, whilst the invalid dozed, there to wander about, -accompanied by two happy brown spaniels. - -To find himself thrown entirely upon his own society, was a rare -experience for Derek Mayne; opportunities to meditate, and hold counsel -with his subconscious self, were invariably passed over and neglected; -his impulse was for action, to be up and doing, not thinking, or -mooning; but for once he found his thoughts arrested, and intensely -occupied, by his uncle's "idea," for once, he approached a subject, -with which he had hitherto refused to grapple,--and a swarm of -thoughts, not hitherto entertained, suddenly invaded his brain. - -It was his nature to face things--but there was one stern fact, he had -always thrust aside. "Nancy!--their marriage! What was to be the end -of that coil?" Was he to go through life alone?--to live in that place -in the hollow, with no companionship, and no affection,--save what was -offered by the dogs? He might, he believed,--though he had never looked -into the subject,--obtain a divorce for desertion; but the idea was -repugnant,--such an action impossible! - -He thought of Travers, who had given his life for him,--his anxiety -about the future of his little girl; the subsequent relief, and -gratitude he had read in those dying eyes; how could he drag "the -little girl" into the blaze and publicity of "a case in the courts"; -oh, it was altogether a deadly business, and yet, where had he gone -wrong? Possibly, when he had suffered a mere chit of eighteen, to -take command of the situation; on the other hand, he recalled with a -guilty qualm, his sense of profound relief, and satisfaction, when he -discovered that she had cut the knot, severed their bonds, and fled! - -The haunting vision of a miserable, white-faced, blighted, flapper, -accompanying him back to Cannanore, had undoubtedly had its terrors; -his colonel did not encourage matrimony,--it spoiled the mess,--and all -his little world would marvel at his choice! He wondered what Nancy was -like now? and what were her surroundings? Possibly she lived in some -third rate suburban circle, was prominent in the local tennis club, -wore home-made frocks, adored (platonically) some preacher or actor, -and led her old aunt by the nose. Only for the secret tie, which held -him, he might have been married long ere this. There was that lively -little girl up at Murree. What marvellous red hair, how she danced and -chattered; and she had liked him too,--but he had never gone beyond -the flirting stage, or dropped into serious love-making; the memory of -Fairplains constrained him. - -A pretty face, had always appealed to Mayne, and certainly Nancy was -no beauty,--possibly by now, she had improved in appearance,--when her -complexion was no longer exposed to the sun, and her hair was properly -dressed, she might pass in a crowd; she would always be quick witted, -quick footed, and quick tempered. After much serious reflection, and -many pipes, he came to the conclusion, that now he was at home, it -was his business to find out something about _Mrs. Mayne_. The name -made him pause, and laugh aloud,--to the great bewilderment of the two -spaniels.--He need not necessarily seek an interview, no, far from it; -but he might as well make cautious inquiries, and discover where she -lived? and what she was doing? - -Mrs. Ffinch was the right woman to lend him a helping hand, and as she -was expected home within the next few weeks, he would ask her to look -up Nancy, without bringing him into the question. Here was a field for -her particular activities; it was just the sort of commission she would -eagerly undertake, and thoroughly enjoy. - -At the end of a fortnight, Mayne prepared to take his departure for -London; not without a half expected, and feared, opposition on the part -of his uncle; but to his surprise and joy, the old gentleman received -his hint of a move, without demur,--for he assured himself, that Derek -was about to act on his advice, and "look about him," and the sooner -he commenced his quest, the better. It was true that he had given no -definite promise; he had said but little; just lounged, and smoked, -and stared at the carpet, or out of the window; however, it was a well -known, and well proved adage, that "silence gives consent." - -It was with a blissful sense of escape, that Mayne found himself seated -in the car, and once more bound for Campfield station. The sensation -was unusual,--for it was the first time, that he had ever felt glad to -leave Maynesfort, and he was secretly ashamed of his joyful relief. The -old man, accustomed to a life of constant outdoor activity, was putting -in a dull time,--and it had enlivened his empty hours, to build castles -in the air,--instead of model cottages,--and reckon upon the future -of his successor's wife, yes--and children! The nurseries had not been -occupied for nearly fifty years; but as the car skimmed round the last -bend in the avenue, and the tall chimney stacks sank out of sight, -Mayne, as he lighted his cigar, sternly assured himself, that as far as -_he_ was concerned,--Maynesfort would never have a mistress. - - - - - CHAPTER XXVI - - THE MEETING - - -The new arrival in Charles Street soon discovered that he had by no -means bettered his position, on the contrary, appeared to have gone out -of the frying-pan, into the fire! Four years had wrought surprising -changes in the ménage: Lord Torquilstone had become "more so," as -Mayne mentally expressed it; his moustache was blacker, his coat more -padded, his temper more irascible, than formerly. He belonged to a type -of club man happily becoming extinct,--loud, aggressive in argument, -quarrelsome, gouty, and greedy. He and her ladyship did not now hit -it off,--and saw as little of one another as their mutual ingenuity -could contrive. She, never appeared before one o'clock; he, lunched, -and frequently dined, at his club,--unless they happened to have a -few guests, or were engaged to present themselves, at some particular -function. - -Mayne noticed a woeful alteration in his mother; she looked faded, and -worn, there were deep lines about her mouth, her voice was querulous, -and her attitude the pose of one enduring "the bitter winter of her -discontent!" In her cold, unemotional way, she was glad to welcome -Derek, a handsome, creditable fellow and like his father; but in -character much stronger, and more self-assertive. - -He seemed to be thoroughly capable of shaping his own life, had -excellent manners, plenty to say for himself, and judging by the number -of his letters, with regimental, and other crests, was claimed by hosts -of friends! In honour of his return, Lord Torquilstone dined at home, -and abused the dinner; and he and his wife passed the young man under -the harrow of a searching examination, with respect to his life, during -the last four years. Mayne found it useless to protest, "But Mater, you -had my letters." - -"Yes, my dear boy,--they were rather dull. Not your fault I know, I -always hated India,--the deadly paradise of the middle class. It's just -what was _not_ in your letters, that I want to hear about." - -"Oh well, if you mean manœuvres, camps of exercise----" - -"Don't be so silly," she interrupted impatiently. - -"Your mother wants to hear about those lively grass widows up in -Simla," broke in his lordship; "come now, own up!" and he chuckled -diabolically. - -"I have nothing to own. Never had any use for the frisky matron, at -home, or abroad." - -"Oh, Derek," protested his mother, "what about Josie Speyde?" - -"Yes, what about _her_?" leaning back, with his hands in his pockets. - -"You were one of her boys, I know!" - -"She taught me to dance,--I'll say that for her." - -"She taught you to flirt too." - -"Don't expect the fellow wanted much teaching!" broke in Lord -Torquilstone. "Any nice little girls out in India?" - -"Oh yes, lots." - -"I hope you didn't leave your heart, behind, Derek? I warn you that as -daughter-in-law, I refuse to receive an Indian spin." - -"Oh, there's no fear of that," replied Derek, lighting a cigarette, and -tossing the match into the fireplace. - -"I suppose you know your uncle is very anxious that you should marry." - -"I suppose I do know! I suppose he has it on the brain, I've heard of -nothing else,--he has driven me to the verge of idiocy." - -"You were twenty-nine last April; time to be looking about, Derek. I -know some charming girls; I do hope you will let _me_ have a say?" - -"Oh, my dear mother, you are welcome to as many says as you like, but I -haven't the smallest intention of marrying." - -"That's the way you young fellows talk," declared Lord Torquilstone, -setting down an empty glass, "and then before you know where you are, -you're _caught_," and he glanced at his wife with deadly significance. - -"I'd like to see the girl, who could put salt on my tail," rejoined his -stepson with extravagant confidence. - -"Well now, Mater," glancing at his watch and rising as he spoke, "if -you'll excuse me, I'm going out." - -"Going out!" she repeated blankly, "_where_ are you going?" - -"To look on at a boxing match; I have promised to join a couple of -fellows at the Sports Club." - -"A boxing match, how horrible--disgusting!" - -"Well, I admit that it's not exactly a pretty sight sometimes; but I -like to see an active muscular fellow, that knows how to use his fists; -I do a little in that line myself. I won't be in till all hours,--so -I'll take a latch-key." - -Before her ladyship could offer any further objection, he had kissed -her on her powdered cheek, nodded to his stepfather, and departed. - -"Quite his own master!" remarked his mother, as she heard the whistle -for a taxi, "and I had promised to take him to the Rutherfords' 'at -home!' Last night he was at the Opera,--it's almost impossible to get -hold of him." - -"You'll find some young woman will get hold of him," snarled Lord -Torquilstone. "I hope she'll be, er! er! respectable. It's just those -young fellows home on leave--that the worst of women pounce on." - -Upon this subject, arose an immediate argument, Lady Torquilstone -declaring, that "no man with good blood in his veins, would be likely -to marry out of his class." Her husband held the opposite view, and -backed his opinion, with an imposing string of names. The argument -waxed louder, and presently developed into a personal quarrel, and -(unmindful of the grey parrot's warning cry, of "Hullo! Hullo! Police! -Police!") they continued exchanging nasty thrusts, until a footman -brought in the ten o'clock post, and her ladyship having collected her -letters, left the smoking-room, fortified with the consciousness, that -the last word, had been _hers_. - - * * * * * - -It was the day of a very "Big" race at Sandown, the weather was -perfection, and half society, and all the racing world poured out of -London in a long succession of specials. - -Captain Mayne and a brother officer, had secured the last two seats -in a smoking carriage; the train was just about to start, when the -door was wrenched open, and a tall young man, leapt in, and hauled a -girl after him. A stout individual by the window, rose, and offered -the lady his place, and he and her companion, stood,--blocking up -the compartment. "By Jove, that was a near squeak," exclaimed the -young man, breathless, but triumphant. Mayne recognized him as an -acquaintance--the Honourable Tony Lamerton. - -"Yes!" panted his companion, "what a race! I wonder what has become of -the others?" - -"Left behind, I'll bet. I'll swear her ladyship could never leg it down -the platform, as you did!" - -"Then pray, what am I to do for a chaperon?" and the girl laughed. - -There was something in the voice and laugh, that sounded oddly familiar -to Mayne, and suddenly leaning forward, he looked round the substantial -figure, which was planted directly in front of him. The first glance, -gave an impression of a remarkably pretty girl; then with a shock, it -dawned upon him, that the pretty girl was _Nancy_! A Nancy altered -almost beyond recognition: beauty the crown of her youth! - -It seemed to Mayne that nothing remained of the original flapper, -but her merry blue eyes, and sweet, high-pitched voice. Her face was -rounded, her complexion--if real,--was dazzling. She was dressed with -surpassing elegance, in a gauzy white gown, touched with green; a large -hat wreathed with green feathers, half concealed masses of reddish -brown hair, a string of splendid pearls encircled her throat, and in -her little white gloved hand, she held a gold bag, and a card of the -races. Undoubtedly her aunt was a woman of wealth, and did not spare it -upon her niece. - -The niece was so engaged in laughing and chattering with Tony Lamerton, -that Mayne had ample time to collect his wits, and make a prolonged and -critical inspection. Nancy carried herself, with an air of graceful -confidence, and the manner of one who was aware of her own value; and -yet the face wore the same eager, almost childish expression; and a -look of innocent mockery danced in the eyes that were raised to Tony -Lamerton. Here was a beauty! an assured, and fashionable young woman; -she and Tony appeared to be on the best of terms, and he noticed that -the Guardsman's attention, was entirely absorbed by his lovely charge. - -As the train cleared the suburbs, a clear young voice, said, "How -dreadfully hot it is!! may we not have the other window down?" and as -the stout gentleman instantly moved to obey her request, Nancy became -suddenly aware of Derek Mayne! He was seated in the far corner, and -hitherto concealed behind a bulky screen. - -His grave dark eyes, encountered her startled glance, with the most -penetrating composure. Yes, it certainly _was_ Captain Mayne,--but -little changed, beyond the transformation effected by London clothes, -a tall hat and a buttonhole. How different to the rough Shikari garb, -in which she had been accustomed to see him! When their eyes met in -recognition, Nancy was sensible of an overwhelming shock; she gave -little outward sign, beyond a quick indrawing of her breath, but her -heart had made such a violent plunge, that it seemed about to leap out -of her mouth! - -Here within three yards of her, was the last man in the world, she -expected, or wished to see. A man, she had almost succeeded in turning -out of her mind, and to whom for weeks she never cast a thought. The -discovery left her nerveless; every morsel of colour deserted her face -and lips. The last time they met, was when they had stood beside her -father's grave: that was exactly two years and four months ago, and -although she had instantly averted her eyes, he was still before them; -vividly different to her somewhat faded mental picture--that of a -worried restless young man, smoking endless cigarettes, as he paced the -terrace at Fairplains. - -During this little scene, Tony and the stout gentleman had taken it -in turn to struggle with an obstinate window sash, and as the former -turned about, his eyes fell upon an old acquaintance. In a voice of -hearty welcome, he exclaimed, - -"Hullo! Mayne, when did you get back?" - -"Three weeks ago." - -"And never came near us,--how is that?" - -"I've been down at Maynesfort." - -"Oh yes, to see the old man! Getting on all right, isn't he? and now -you're doing a bit of town, eh?--What are you backing for the big race?" - -As Mayne discussed the favourites and weights, he noticed that Nancy -had recovered her composure and colour; her self-possession was -marvellous; but then he was not aware, that she had been through a -rigorous training in a stern school, and had learnt to successfully -repress her feelings and emotions. For the moment, she appeared to be -engrossed in the study of her race card; but unless Mayne was greatly -mistaken, it was not altogether the oscillation of the express, which -caused that pretty little hand, to shake quite perceptibly! - - - - - CHAPTER XXVII - - OLD FRIENDS AND STRANGE NEWS - - -By some unexplained miracle it turned out that Nancy's chaperon--Lady -Jane Wynne--had actually caught the train, and Mayne overheard the -party volubly congratulating one another, as they moved out of the -station. And so that slim girl in white, carrying a green sunshade, was -Mrs. Mayne! Among all that great crowd, there was no one to approach -her in looks and distinction. If people were to know the truth, how -widely he would be envied! - -His uncle clamoured for him to take a wife, and there she was, -strolling up the path in front of him--supported on either hand by -an assiduous escort. Supposing he were to claim her? Here was a -very different individual to the poor little girl in India, who was -distracted with grief, and misery. There was something amazingly -attractive about this new, and radiant Nancy. His inspection in the -railway carriage, had shown him, an undeniably _happy_ face! - -Meanwhile the object of his reflections,--for all her assumed -animation--felt shattered, by her recent experience, and talked the -wildest nonsense to her companions, as she made her way to the stand. -Here numerous acquaintances accosted, and surrounded her and her -party. To-day, Miss Travers' gaiety was feverish, her colour unusually -high, and her laugh almost hysterical. Soon after the second race, she -complained of a headache, and sought a seat on the way to the paddock, -where, attended by Sir Dudley Villars, she sheltered behind her -sunshade. - -Sir Dudley was not a racing man; cards, he could understand; but -betting, and backing horses, he looked upon as childish! Races, were -all right, as institutions--where you met your friends, had a fair -lunch, inspected the newest beauties, and heard the latest gossip. To -sit by Nancy Travers, studying her exquisite complexion, listening to -her somewhat disjointed chatter, was a thousand times more agreeable, -than being precariously perched on the top of a stand, following with -a field-glass, the speedy movements, of a little bunch of thoroughbreds! - -During a lull, before one of the big events, a seemingly endless -procession passed backwards and forwards between the paddock, and the -stand. Sir Dudley pointed out various celebrities to Nancy,--adding in -each case some pithy, or cynical remark. She did not wish to be noticed -and accosted, and kept her parasol well before her face, but the hat of -her companion seemed to be scarcely ever on his head; his acquaintance -appeared to be as the sands of the sea! - -"There's the Duchess of Doncaster,--I see she is bringing out her -second girl,--hard luck on Lady Alfreda. There's Claverhouse of the -Blues, and the little American widow; I wonder if _that_ will come off?" - - * * * * * - -These and other remarks were received by his partner, with nods -and monosyllables. Her thoughts were elsewhere; her mind was in a -tumult of fear, and bewilderment. Supposing Derek Mayne were to come -forward, and claim her; what was to be her attitude? What would -Mrs. De Wolfe think?--yes, and all her girl friends,--who talked to -her so frankly, of their love affairs; Nora Wynne, Brenda Miller, -and various others,--for she looked and was, a born confidante, and -sympathizer,--what would be their feelings, when they were informed, -that their simple Nancy had actually a _husband_ in the background? Her -reflections were interrupted by her companion suddenly asking, "I hope -you had a good day?" - -"'A good day?'" she repeated to herself. It was one of the _worst_, she -had ever known! But she smiled faintly, and replied, "Oh, yes,--I've -won! Tony Lamerton has given me tips. I put ten shillings on 'Dear Me.'" - -"So I see that fellow Mayne is home again," remarked Sir Dudley; -"strolling about with his old love,--Josie Speyde. She is looking -remarkably well to-day,--those daring colours, suit her bold, black -style." - -Nancy raised her sunshade a couple of inches, and peeped out -cautiously. There they were! promenading slowly together, Josie talking -and gesticulating with unusual animation, and Mayne?--she surveyed -him critically,--yes, he was remarkably good-looking; well set-up, -well-dressed, and could hold his own, even with her present companion! - -"Do you know him?" she faltered. - -"Who? Oh, Mayne?--yes. Not very well, he's in my club, and we just pass -the time of day. Not a bad-looking chap; one of the rough-and-ready -sort: goes in for polo, boxing, and soldiering. He's afflicted with the -most appalling stepfather, Torquilstone,--I actually had to leave the -High Light Club, as I simply couldn't stand him; he seemed to _live_ -in the smoking-room, and never gave us a day off! I hear that Mayne's -people are keen to get him married, and that Lady Torquilstone is -looking about for a suitable daughter-in-law,--no penniless beauty need -apply." - -It did not strike Sir Dudley that he had said anything particularly -humorous, yet Nancy had burst into rather a wild, and unexpected -laugh. How odd, and jerky she was to-day! headaches affected people in -different ways: as he looked at her shining eyes, and brilliant colour, -he leant towards her, and said in his most seductive manner: - -"If you will be a good little girl, you won't sit here in the sun, but -allow me to take you straight home; and go and lie down, and have ice -on your head." - -"Ice!" she repeated; "you have put it _into_ my head! I'm dying for -one, and here comes Tony; I promised I'd let him take me to their tent. -I'll be quite all right to-morrow; we were such a frightful squash -in our carriage coming down, that I was nearly suffocated with the -heat,"--then rising as she spoke, "Here I am, Tony! I'm coming; did I -_really_ win five pounds!"--as he handed her a note. "Well, I'll give -it to the Dog's Home." - -Sir Dudley, who felt himself injured, and deserted, relinquished his -pretty companion with what grace he could assume, and swept off his -hat in his very best style. As he looked after the couple, he said to -himself, "'Dogs' Home!' Much better return it to that bumptious young -puppy,--who by all accounts is uncommonly hard up!" - -Mayne, man-like, was not nearly so overwhelmed by their recent -encounter as Nancy. He was still able to make bets, talk sanely to -friends, and to follow the racing, with the keenest interest (although -running through his thoughts, and keeping well ahead of the horses, -was Mrs. Mayne). His present idea, was to make a move; a quiet cautious -move, and try to find out, how the land lay? He had not failed to -notice Nancy's numerous admirers; more than once, he had focussed -her through his glasses, and though she played the "Ostrich," he was -perfectly aware of the identity of the girl, who was sitting on the -lawn, with that tame cat, Dudley Villars!--A tame, but _not_ domestic -cat! he knew something about him; and what he knew, was not to his -advantage. A song-singing, insidious, unscrupulous, rascal,--and no fit -companion for any innocent girl. - -The sight of Villars, and his proprietary attitude, had awakened -Mayne's jealousy, and materialized his intentions; he must see, and -that without delay, how he could approach Nancy? Possibly some friendly -third person, would assist him? It would be, he was aware,--a most -delicate enterprise, yet "nothing venture, nothing have!" - -As Mayne and a friend, were leaving the paddock, they almost ran into -Teddy Dawson, Mrs. Hicks, and Jessie; he halted at once. This amazing -encounter, was as unexpected, as it was providential! Here, as it were -spirited from the ends of the earth,--were two of the witnesses to his -marriage! and Dawson his best man, would stand by him now, as formerly. - -The greetings of the little party were exceedingly cordial. Mrs. -Hicks, Jessie and Ted were unaffectedly delighted to see Mayne. Teddy -was now presentable, and "more,"--as his fiancée said,--"like a human -being!" Mrs. Hicks radiantly happy, and attired in a bright green gown, -with a pink silk frill round her neck,--recalled to Mayne, the common -parroquet of India! - -To secure a word with Teddy, Mayne presented his brother officer to the -two ladies, and drawing him aside, said in an undertone: - -"Guess _who's_ here?" - -"Yes, I know; I've seen her," replied Teddy; "isn't she ripping? Takes -the whole cake, eh? Have you met?" - -"We came down in the same carriage just now; she cut me dead!" - -"Oh well, I expect she was a bit taken aback----" - -"Look here, Dawson, I want to see you,--I _must_ see you! I know -your time is not your own,--but fix an early date to dine,--or -something!--My club is the 'Rag.'" - -"And mine's the 'Oriental.'" - -"I say, you two," interposed Mrs. Hicks, laying a yellow claw, on -Mayne's arm, "I won't have this! When two men get so confidential, I -know they're after no good! Oh, I'm up to all your little games!" and -she poked Mayne sharply with her fan. "If you are fixing a dinner, -you must both dine with _me_! I know of such a nice, risky little -restaurant, in Soho, where they do you 'A 1' for half a crown; and -we'll all go on to a music-hall afterwards. Now, you come along, and -get me a cup of tea," taking possession of Mayne; "I suppose you have -tickets?" and still holding him fast, she led him captive towards -the refreshment room. "I'm awfully glad you're home at _last_," she -remarked, with significant emphasis. - -"Thank you," said Mayne,--meeting the amused eye of a friend, who -stared hard at the lady on his arm. - -"It's on account of Nancy," she continued, confidentially; "have you -_seen_ her?" - -"Yes; to-day." - -"Now, who would have thought, she'd bloom out into such a beauty! But -her mother was rarely pretty,--and you saw the Earl for yourself. -Jessie and me lunched with Nancy, and the old lady yesterday; the old -lady has a voice comes out of her boots, and Nancy is just the same as -ever!" - -"Is she?" - -"Come now; don't you be so stiff, and stand off; it isn't every man who -has a beauty, and a real nice girl for a wife. And then there's all the -_money_!" and she nodded her head complacently. - -"Money? What money?" he asked. - -"Oh, Lord! haven't you heard? Why, she's got _tons_ of it." - -Mayne stared at his companion interrogatively. - -"Just squeeze me in there, and get me a cup of tea,--two lumps! and -_then_ I'll tell you all about it in a jiffy!" - -With a teacup in her hand, Mrs. Hicks resumed: "Do you _mean_ to say, -that you never heard, that Mr. Fletcher left Fairplains to Nancy?" - -"No. Did he really?" - -"Yes, and a couple of thousand a year, as well." - -After a long pause, he asked, "How long ago?" - -"About eighteen months. She was living with an aunt,--a real terror, -by all accounts, and having a mighty poor time, and then she came in -for this legacy. An old lady who had a fancy for Nancy, took her in -hand, and they have been knocking about the Continent for quite a time. -Now they are staying at the Hyde Park Hotel. The old lady, who has no -family, is just wrapped up in Nancy. She's one of the 'ordering-about -sort,' and has a man's nose, and deep voice. Her name is De Wolfe!" - -"De Wolfe!" repeated her listener, in amazement. "Are you quite sure?" - -"Yes, I'm both sure, and certain,--how could anyone forget such an -outlandish name as that?" - -"I know Mrs. De Wolfe well," said Mayne, "she and I come from the same -part of the world." - -"I am glad to hear it, and you can take over Nancy. It is not fair or -respectable, that she should be going about as Miss Travers, turning -all the men's heads,--when you and I know, that she's a married woman!" - -Mayne made no reply, but accepted an empty teacup in silence, and Mrs. -Hicks continued: "Of course, you will leave the service, and take a -fine country place; for there's not only the Fletcher money, but the -gold mine. I see! you've not heard of that, I suppose! They are working -a big reef on Fairplains,--you know the place near Chuttibutti?" - -"I've heard nothing whatever about Fairplains, since I last saw you," -said Mayne, after a considerable pause, during which an agreeable -day-dream, had been completely dispelled. - -"You've only yourself to thank for that!" said Mrs. Hicks, shaking the -crumbs from her green plumage. "You went away to the north of India, -and dropped the whole lot of us, like so many 'ot potatoes. Those -old workings have turned out very valuable,--Hicks always believed -in them.--They say, they are bringing Nancy in about eight thousand -a year, and will be worth more, as time goes on! What do you think -of that?"--and she poked him facetiously with her pocket-fan. "Why, -I declare, to look at you, one would say you'd lost a fortune! Come, -come! buck up!" - -"Mother!" interrupted Jessie breathlessly, "I've been looking for you -everywhere; we are going to try, and catch the next train. You know we -are dining in town, and doing a play,--so _do_, do make haste! Captain -Mayne, you'll come, and see us, won't you?" - -"Why, of course he will," replied her mother; "he and I have no end to -say to one another,"--then turning to him, "Our address--have you a -pencil, and I'll write it out on a bit of the race-card,--Torkington -House, Baron's Court, quite in the wilds; but you're used to that! It -was in the wilds that we met, ha! ha!" - -"Oh, _do_ come, mother!" cried Jessie, and seizing her by the arm, -she dragged her parent almost forcibly away, but Teddy hung back -for a second,--and said, "I'll telephone to your club, and fix a -meeting!"--then he ran. - -A change had come o'er the spirit of Mayne's dream; a bolt had -descended from the blue! If Nancy had ten thousand a year, or -thereabouts, how, he asked himself, could he come forward, and claim -her? He had suddenly lost all interest in the meeting,--he had also -mislaid his companion, and strolled over, and leant on the rails; -not as others, watching an exciting race, but digesting Mrs. Hicks' -unwelcome information. Her news, had altered the whole of his plans. -Plans hastily made; and as hastily shattered. - -Suddenly a heavy hand smote him on the back, and turning about he -beheld Major Cathcart, looking remarkably spruce, and cheerful. "Glad -to see you, old man," he began. "All the world seems to have turned up -here to-day; and what a rare good meeting! I have pulled off a nice -little haul." Then, after an expressive pause.... "_You've_ had a bad -time, I'm afraid!" - -"Oh, no," replied Mayne, standing erect, and facing the speaker, -"_I've_ done pretty well, too." - -"I say," now indicating a flowing tide of departures,--"if you are -going by this train, we may as well toddle down together, and discuss -old times." - -Mayne nodded assent, and turned to accompany him. - -"Where are you staying?" inquired Cathcart. - -"With my mother, in Charles Street." - -"And what leave have they given you?" - -"All I asked for--three months." - -"Of course you'll get an extension! Do you know that there has been -quite a gathering of the hill tribes here to-day? I spotted Mrs. -Hicks,--by George, what a sight! she ought to be in the Zoo, among -the cockatoos. Her eldest girl, and Teddy Dawson, were with her, and -then there's you and me,--and last but not least, Miss Nancy Travers! -There's a transformation! She's a tremendous success, I can tell you. -Men actually biting, and scratching one another, to get hold of her -at dances, and so on. She's deuced ornamental, and well gilded too! -and has slipped into the rôle of heiress, and beauty,--as easily as -an old glove. You'd never believe she is the same girl as our little -red-haired flapper! Have you come across her?" - -"Not ... er ... to speak to." - -"Well, all in good time; you and she used to be rather chummy, and by -Jove, she could play tennis a bit! Mrs. De Wolfe, her chaperon, is a -crafty old woman, and knows all the best people. She will do her best -to fix a coronet, on that girl's head. I hear Lord Lanark is in the -last stage of idiocy. I must confess I am rather surprised, that Mrs. -De Wolfe allows Miss Nancy to be seen about with that fellow Villars. -I am told, that he was always one of the little family party, on Como; -painting, boating and caterwauling and all that sort of thing! He got -the girl a good deal talked about,--but that's his little way!" - -"Mayne never had much to say for himself," thought his companion, "now -he did not seem to have a word, to throw at the traditional dog; but -appeared to be totally dumb, and an absolutely uninterested listener. -Well, there were crowds of other fellows, with whom he could improve -the shining half-hour, to town," so with a "See you later on," Cathcart -shook off this deadly wet-blanket, and hailed a passing acquaintance. - - - - - CHAPTER XXVIII - - "ADVICE GRATIS" - - -For once, Mrs. De Wolfe was hopelessly puzzled; something had happened -the day of the races at Sandown; for ever since that date, Nancy was -a changed creature; her amazing spirits appeared to have evaporated; -she no longer entered into plans, with the same keen enthusiasm, but -was restless, nervous, and given to surprising fits of silence. Her -anxious chaperon dated this phase, from the afternoon when she had -confided her charge into the hands of Jane Wynne; yet Jane Wynne could -throw no light on the matter--although her aunt had approached her -with the most careful, and subtle questions. The girl did not bet, -she had no quarrel with anyone, nor had she lost any treasured bit of -jewellery,--something had gone much deeper than _that_. What was it? - -Nancy described in somewhat laborious detail, the crowd, the -heat,--which had given her a headache,--she had met masses of people -she knew, including the Hicks, and Teddy; the Millers were there in -great force, including Lady Miller in a wonderful French frock; but the -glare was dreadful, and she had not enjoyed herself one bit. "How I -wish I had stayed at home, with you, and sat out in the cool under the -trees," she concluded, as she had bent over her old friend, and kissed -her between her somewhat bushy eyebrows. - -Subsequently, Mrs. De Wolfe (who was credited with eyes in the back of -her head) noted, that when they were in the park, at a polo match, or a -dance, Nancy seemed to be looking about her nervously, as if in quest -of someone: some individual whom she was half afraid to see! Her talk -and her manner suffered; she had become preoccupied, absent minded, -and silent.--It was a puzzle.--Meanwhile, her young friend was going -through a crisis of feeling, almost too terrible to support. - -For a whole fortnight, Nancy never caught sight of Mayne, and then she -encountered him riding in the park one morning early. He was with a -lady. They passed within a few yards of one another; but made no sign. -She had felt half inclined to bow, but her impulse had arrived too late. - -Mayne had waited in due form upon the Hicks, sent a handsome present to -the bride-elect, and invited Teddy to dine with him at his club; but -Teddy preferred a _tête-à-tête_ luncheon--his evenings were sacred to -Jessie. - -"I'm awfully glad you were able to come," said Mayne, as he ushered his -friend into the stately dining-room of his club. "I couldn't get half a -word with you the other day, and I wanted to have a _bukh_." - -"Oh, it's all right,--Jessie let me off this morning; she is up to her -neck, shopping! You see, we are to be married in ten days, and want to -do our honeymoon at home, before I get back to the coffee. We intend to -live at Fairplains, which belongs to Nancy,--as you know." - -"Yes! Mrs. Hicks told me. I hadn't heard a word." - -"Well, how could you? when you never wrote to any of us. Nancy was a -jolly sight better, she used to send me screeds, when she lived with -her aunt, and did Companion, and Tweenie, and Scapegoat. However, -that's all over now; as she and Mrs. De Wolfe will live together: they -are going down to her country place, after July. I dined with them the -other night, and I have heard all their plans." - -"Mrs. De Wolfe lives in our part of the world; she and my uncle are -old friends, so Nancy and I, will find ourselves in the same boat, -meeting every day, sitting next to one another at dinner; in fact, I -see nothing for it, but to chuck the rest of my leave, and go back to -India." - -"Don't be a fool, Mayne! Why on earth should you do that?" - -"Knowing what you know,--need you ask? How can I go about, and -associate, with a girl----" He paused expressively. - -"You can make it up." - -"No! I did my best, and Nancy made a fool of me." - -"Yes, but the poor child was out of her mind with grief; the whole -tragedy got upon her nerves; to tell you the truth, she grew so -strange, that they thought she was really going off her chump, and -bundled her home,--where I believe some real hard knocks and shocks, -brought her to her senses. She has a face you can't forget; awfully -pretty, isn't she?" - -"She is," assented the other. - -"Look here, Mayne, if you will take _my_ advice,--you will sit -tight--and brazen it out!" - -"But my dear fellow, how can I brazen out, what is a dead secret?" - -"Everyone will know some day,--and there will be a most tremendous -rumpus. Nancy is famous for her good looks, she has a whole string of -admirers,--Finchie's nephew is making great running, and----" - -"He may run till he is black in the face," interrupted Mayne, "he can't -marry her." - -"Aren't you rather a manger dog; you don't care about the girl -yourself,--some day she may lose her heart to a fellow, and _then_ what -is to happen?" - -"I'm afraid, I have not been quite candid with you, Teddy old man! -although I have only seen this new Nancy twice; I find, that I _do_ -care for her. In old days I admired her character, and liked her -as a pal, otherwise she only struck me as a sunburnt, talkative, -tomboy. Now, added to her good points, she has become beautiful, and -attractive; and if she hadn't a penny, I'd have come forward, have -asked you to be my ambassador, and endeavoured to make friends. On -these lines, I believe matters would have worked out all right, in -_time_. Travers liked me, and I'd score there; but to find that Nancy -is not only a beauty, but also a great heiress, is a bit too much to -face. I couldn't stand a wife with heaps of money, and mines! I'd be -buried in gold and grandeur, and lose my own identity--such as it -is! I only wish I saw a clear and honourable road, out of the whole -diabolical business!" - -"That is to say, if the mine were to burst up, and the coffee to go -smash. I suppose," added Dawson, after a moment's reflection, "there -was no flaw in that hurried-up ceremony?" - -"None! I made particular inquiries at the time. The parson had the -Bishop's licence all right; they sent an express, and routed his -lordship out of bed in the middle of the night. Without this licence, a -marriage is no more valid, as a binding ceremony,--than taking a woman -down to dinner." - -"So there's no loop-hole in _that_ direction," said his companion. "If -Finchie were at home, I bet you anything you like, she'd clear a path -somehow. Shove you and your queer wedding into limbo, and marry Nancy -and her money, to her nephew, Tony Lamerton!" - -"Yes, perhaps she'd have a good try, but she couldn't bring it off all -the same." - -"You're coming to see me turned off on Wednesday week, eh,--you really -_must_ support me, and Nancy is to be one of the bridesmaids." - -"Is she? well don't put me down for best man,--I'm not eligible, but -I'll afford you my presence, and moral support. Is it to be a big -affair?" - -"I'm afraid so! lots of Mrs. Hicks' old friends, every planter in -London, and most of our fellow passengers; we've had some thumping -presents. Nancy has given us a car, a piano, and a fine canteen. She -takes the deepest interest in our affairs, and is with Jessie to-day. -We are sending some new furniture out to Fairplains." - -"Well, I must confess, I rather liked the old sticks. There was one -lame chair in the verandah, the most comfortable I ever sat in,--just -took you nicely in the back, and didn't poke your head into your -chest." - -"It shall be preserved, and kept ready for _you_ whenever you come for -a shoot." - -"I'll never shoot again at Fairplains,--or set foot on Nancy's estate." - -"What a stiff-necked beggar you are! and yet I think it is quite on the -cards,--that you may never return to India." - -"Yes, I see your meaning, why swither out there, when I have a rich -wife in England? As it happens, I bar a rich wife, and never intend to -claim her." - -"Supposing she were to take it into her head to claim _you_? What then?" - -Mayne stared at his guest for a moment, and then burst into a loud and -hearty laugh. "Sooner than that, from what I know of Nancy, she would -take a header off Waterloo Bridge." - -"Well," replied Teddy, looking at his watch, "I must be off. Jessie is -the soul of punctuality,--and I have to be, what the Americans call, -'on time.'" - -"I score over you in one way, Teddy," said his friend, "I was never on -duty; I had no long engagement,--at the outside, it wasn't more than -thirty-six hours!" - - - - - CHAPTER XXIX - - "THE SWORD OF DAMOCLES" - - -During these sunny summer days, although Nancy looked remarkably gay -and pretty, and went what is called "everywhere," she was secretly -miserable,--but bravely concealed her sufferings and kept her anxieties -to herself. For more than two years, she had lived in a sort of fool's -paradise, or as if she had been in a dream. Now, she had been awakened -with a shock, and like a newly-aroused sleeper, began to look about -her, and realized a changed world. She had never supposed that Derek -Mayne would re-enter her life: he was in India,--that land of vague and -indefinite banishments,--and she was in England. - -How could they ever meet? Then she had his promise: his letter, -treasured in her jewel-case. Nevertheless, here he was in London, -actually within a few streets, and he had it in his power to ruin and -upset the whole of her life; he could if he chose. She recalled his -expression of cool scrutiny, and aloofness, as he looked at her across -the railway carriage: his glance was direct, dominating, and almost -stern. - -Although the future horizon was vague and misty, recently life had -gone smoothly for Nancy; she had been gliding along, as it were on -a wide placid river; now all at once she seemed to be approaching -unknown falls, and to hear the roar of the rapids! In her short life, -she had known days, and days of intense mental anguish,--the agony of -bereavement. This present pain was neither so sharp, or so poignant, -but of an unceasing aching, and gnawing description. - -She slept badly; she had little appetite for food, or amusement; each -succeeding day she expected the sword to fall! Every time she and her -chaperon re-entered their suite, her first impulse was to rush to the -table, where cards and letters awaited them, and these she turned over, -and examined with a throbbing heart. Would Derek Mayne call, and seek -an interview with Mrs. De Wolfe? Would he claim her? He might try,--but -she would resist,--or would he merely inform people that she was his -lawful wife, and leave her, so to speak, to face the music! - -By an amazing coincidence, two of the witnesses to her marriage were -in London: Teddy and Mrs. Hicks; and she lived in quaking fear that -_they_ would open the subject! Much to her relief, it had never been -approached. At present, Teddy and his future mother-in-law were far too -much engrossed in their own more interesting affairs. - -Lady Belmont's long expected and belated ball, eventually took place at -the "Ritz"; and more than fulfilled the most exigeant anticipations. -Many of the best people, the pretty girls, and the smart young men -were present. Nancy and her chaperon,--who, surprising to relate, -delighted in a ball,--were early arrivals. Nancy loved dancing, danced -beautifully, and was much improved since Dudley Villars had been her -constant partner. She looked very lovely, and a little out of breath -as she came up to Mrs. De Wolfe at the end of a long waltz, and found -the old lady talking with unusual animation to some man,--who, when he -turned about, she saw to her consternation, was Captain Mayne! - -"Nancy," said her chaperon, "I want you to give a dance to an old -friend of mine; one of my boys, Captain Mayne!--Derek, this is my young -friend, Miss Travers." - -Captain Mayne bowed, and said, "Miss Travers and I have met before. -May I?" looking at her steadily, "have the honour of a waltz?" - -Nancy, who had paled rather suddenly, glanced down at her crammed -programme, and murmured, "Number twelve," and with a bow, he backed -away into the crowd. - -Nancy's card had been filled ever since she had appeared in the -ball-room; nevertheless, she mentally threw over Lord Lanark--whose -name was scribbled before number twelve waltz, "Destiny." She must -speak to Captain Mayne, and learn the worst! what he intended to do? or -not to do? and face this horrible ordeal. - -Waiting and uncertainty had become unbearable; and yet the dread of the -approaching interview, filled her with terror. For a moment she was -seized by an overwhelming reluctance. All the fears of the last weeks, -had now become real, and verified. She was fired by a wild desire, -to feign illness, and rush home; but soon overcame this preposterous -temptation. It was imperative to stand to her promise, and to listen to -what her partner had to say--nothing agreeable, that was certain--she -had glanced into his face, and there read an expression of cool and -absolute indifference. - -However, now they had been formally made known to one another, and -were liable to meet, she must learn the rules of the game in which -she was expected to take part! There it was, the first part of -"Destiny!" and here he came; edging his way towards her through the -crowd. She accepted his arm in dead silence, and in another moment -they were launched among the whirling throng. Mayne danced extremely -well,--steering his course with remarkable skill. (Nancy had noticed -him waltzing with Josie; their steps suited admirably; graceful, lissom -Josie, moving with a sort of foreign swing and abandon, murmuring into -his ear all the time they floated round,--unquestionably they were -_old_ friends). He was not perhaps so accomplished a performer as Sir -Dudley, but he held his partner with greater respect, and did not use -an Oriental perfume on his sleek dark hair. - -They exchanged one or two formal remarks about the floor, and the band, -danced until the music ceased, and people began to pour out of the -ball-room; then Mayne led his companion to a secluded little settee, -and took a chair close by. Here was the supreme moment! He looked at -Nancy narrowly: how young, fresh, and slim,--and yet how woefully -white, and scared!--he could actually see a little pulse throbbing -in her throat, her hands were tightly locked in her lap. Yes! brutal -thought, he was getting a little of his own back! At last he said: - -"Well!" - -Nancy raised her frightened eyes, glanced at him quickly, and looked -down; and there ensued an expressive silence, more eloquent than words. -The pause was broken by Mayne, who quietly quoted: - -"Gentlemen of the French Guard,--fire first!" - -"I suppose you mean that _I_ am to speak," said Nancy in a low voice. - -He nodded shortly. - -"But I don't know what to say." - -Nevertheless she realized that she was fencing with her future life. - -"Oh, of course I don't expect you to say you are _glad_ to see me," and -he gave an abrupt laugh. - -Nancy made no reply,--but her lower lip quivered. - -"May I offer you my congratulations?" he continued. "I hear you are now -a great heiress; a goldmine! and Fairplains." - -"Fairplains, yes! Oh, if only Daddy had been alive!" - -"Yes, I know," he assented promptly, "please don't _spare_ me! If I -hadn't missed the panther----" - -"I'm not quite so malicious as you imagine," she interrupted, "and you -need not be so bitter--for you know as well as I do, how Daddy adored -Fairplains." - -"Pray accept my apologies," he said coolly, "I was not aware that you -had modified your opinions. I wished to speak to you,--and here is my -golden opportunity! You see, by most shocking bad luck, we happen to -find ourselves in the same set! Your chaperon, Mrs. De Wolfe, belongs -to my part of the world; she knew me in pinafores, so I am afraid we -shall often knock up against one another." - -"I suppose so," asserted Nancy, without raising her eyes. - -"We may even find ourselves staying in the same house, and this would -be a bit awkward; for if we were dead cuts, it might excite remark! -However, this preposterous position, won't last long; I shall be -returning to India." He paused for a moment and then added, with a -smile, "Ah! I see you look relieved!" - -"Do I? I did not know,--I rather wish I was going back too!" - -"What, tired of the gay world already?" - -To this she made no answer. - -"Well, Nancy, you and I are in a queer fix, if ever there was one! God -knows I meant to do the square thing," he went on gravely, "but I made -a most awful hash of the whole business!" - -"I believe you _did_ mean well," she murmured, speaking with evident -effort, "and I behaved--ungratefully; but I was crazy with grief. -Everything was so awfully sudden, and, and----" she hesitated. - -"And you couldn't bear the sight of me," he interjected, "and I -accepted the situation. You made everything fairly plain in your -letter,--didn't you?"--Another immense pause. - -Nancy wondered how long this hateful scene was to continue--it seemed -to have lasted for hours. Then in a meditative tone Mayne began: - -"Now I wonder, if I had followed you to your hiding-place, and dragged -you off to Cananore, how would that have answered?" - -"It would have made me hate, and abhor you, as long as I lived," she -rejoined with startling vehemence. - -"Oh! and do you hate, and abhor, me now?" - -She raised her eyes, and considered him gravely; but made no reply--she -did not wish to be his wife, but in her secret heart, she knew she -would be glad to be friends. Something in his voice, and his honest -eyes, recalled old days, and the many happy hours, they two had spent -together. Then he was so manly, and good-looking; also she began to -feel, that she was not really afraid of him. - -"What I wished to say to you," he continued, "is this: that, owing to -the pressure of circumstances, we must meet, and pretend to be friends." - -"Or be friends, and pretend?" she corrected timidly. - -"What an explosion, if the truth ever leaked out! Think of your friends -and relations; my friends and my regiment. However, you may rely upon -me to keep my promise,--and to hold my tongue." After a moment's -silence, he added: "How do you hit it off with Mrs. De Wolfe?" - -"Extremely well,--I am very fond of her." - -"Somehow I shouldn't have thought that she was your sort!--I've seen -you going about, with her godson, that fellow Villars." - -"Yes, he noticed you that day at Sandown, and he was speaking about -you," replied Nancy, who had somewhat recovered her colour, and her -courage. - -"That was kind of him,--I am flattered. What did he say, anything -libellous?" - -"Oh no indeed; he only told me, that your uncle, is very anxious for -you to marry." - -"Well that's a true bill,--he _is_!" - -"But _can_ you?" - -"What a funny question. No, not unless I wish to be run in for -bigamy,--a Mrs. Mayne already exists." - -"You mean me?" - -"Yes, who else?" slowly turning his head to look at her. The question -was sarcastically enforced. - -After a short silence she murmured: "And is there _no_ way out?" - -"I imagine there is; but you see, I've not had much to do with -matrimonial intricacies,--I believe, I could divorce you--for -desertion!" - -"Oh!" putting her hands up to cover her face, "and it would be in all -the papers!" - -"It would; and probably headed, 'Great military scandal,' and -illustrated with our portraits." - -"And what _would_ Mrs. De Wolfe say?" - -"Mrs. De Wolfe can stand a good deal,--she's had some pretty bad -shocks in her time; and is a regular old brick; and you would achieve -notoriety!--Then on the other hand, _I_ might give you reason to -divorce _me_," and he looked at Nancy with keen significance. - -Nancy blushed to the roots of her hair: her very ears were red. - -"But make your mind easy," he continued, "I am not going to wade -through mud,--even to break our chain." - -"And is there _no_ way out of it?" she repeated with a sort of sob. - -"I'm afraid not. With every good intention, your father and I made -a serious mistake. It is not so easy, to order the lives of other -people,--each must go his own road. You have no wish to walk in mine; -or I in yours. I don't want you as a wife,--official or otherwise,--and -I have excellent reason to know, that you have no desire to play the -rôle of Mrs. Mayne." - -His tone and expression, made Nancy wince--and yet this announcement -was a profound relief. She glanced at him, as he sat in a favourite -attitude, nursing his foot,--a very neat foot, and well turned ankle, -in black silk hose.--She remembered how her father had chaffed him, and -he said, "When I was at school I hurt my foot rather badly at rugger, -and nursed it on my knee to keep it out of harm's way,--the trick has -grown on me, I do it unconsciously." - -"May I look at this?" he said, leaning forward and picking her -programme off her lap. - -"I'm not sure that it isn't one of my prerogatives. Hullo! so you threw -over Lanark, and gave _me_ his dance; I hope he won't shoot me? eh! -Villars, Villars, Villars,--_toujours_ Villars, _why_ so much Villars?" - -"Oh, because I know him rather well." - -"I bet you _don't_." - -"I see you don't like him." - -"No: a fellow who can't play cricket, either physically or morally, who -can't box, or shoot; just a good-looking blighter, with a glib tongue, -and a face of brass." - -"At any rate, he is clever, and accomplished; he sings and plays the -violin, paints better than many professionals,--he dances like a dream." - -"So _you_ seem to think!" - -"But _everyone_ thinks it! I've been told, that girls have actually -wept, because he ignored them at a ball." - -"More fools they! shall _I_ ever see the proud day, when a girl howls, -because I haven't asked her to dance? Look here, Nancy," and his voice -took a certain peremptoriness, "don't have anything to do with that -chap Villars,--he is _not_ a safe acquaintance!" - -Nancy made no reply, and apparently assuming that silence gave consent, -he continued--"I see our old friend Cathcart here, no doubt repairing -his shattered nerves, after a spasm of work! He appears to be in great -force. You have not favoured him,--how is that?" - -"He didn't ask me for a dance." - -"What!" staring at her. "Oh, so you've had a row!" - -"Not exactly a row," and she hesitated. - -"Exactly what? come, own up, we are not likely to have another -interview, for some time." - -"Well then if you _must_ know,--he asked me to marry him!" - -"To marry him!" echoed her companion, now no longer nursing his foot, -and sitting erect. - -"And was very angry indeed, when I said no, in fact he has cut me dead -ever since." - -For some time Mayne was silent, at last he said: - -"Asked you to marry him; by Jove, that was too funny! I think I must -propose to some girl,--so as to make us quits; though it might be -rather awkward, if she happened to say 'yes'! However, of course I -could easily jilt her!" Then in quite another tone, "No doubt you -encouraged his hopes?" - -"I did nothing of the kind," she answered hotly, "I've always disliked -him." - -"Ah! Well on one point we agree; I don't love him either. There's your -programme; I wonder if you are aware, that we have sat out two whole -dances? Time has flown,--hasn't it? Look here, one word before we part. -We are bound to meet at home,--I mean in Moonshire. Mrs. De Wolfe and -my uncle are tremendous chums, old lovers and that sort of thing, and I -daresay she will wonder, that since we knew one another in India,--why -you have kept me so _dark_? You must play up! You'd better say,--we had -a quarrel." - -"Very well," assented the girl. - -"And don't let her run away with the idea,--that it was a _lovers'_ -quarrel," he added, rising as he spoke. - -To this, Nancy made no reply, and they returned to the ball-room in -absolute silence. The moment she appeared, she was instantly claimed -by Sir Dudley Villars, who upbraided her with having "cut his dance." -Meanwhile Mayne walked off in search of his own partner. - -How pretty Nancy was; indeed lovely! How her colour went and came, and -how her little under lip, had trembled. Perhaps he had been a bit rough -on her! The old outspoken, spirited, Nancy he remembered, was gone! At -first, she had seemed as frightened as a newly caught bird. But, after -all, why should he not bully her a little? considering that he was -her lawful lord, and master; and that his share, so far, had been the -kicks,--whilst she, had collared all the half-pence! - - - - - CHAPTER XXX - - CRITICAL MOMENTS FOR NANCY - - -Captain Mayne's remark with regard to no further interview, proved -correct; he and Nancy merely encountered one another as very slight -acquaintances, who have friends in common. She noticed him riding -in the Park with Josie,--they never joined her, but merely cantered -by with a cheery salute. At a polo match at Ranelagh, where Mayne -had played and distinguished himself, she looked on, whilst friends -gathered round to congratulate him, and she saw Josie go up and pat the -damp neck of his considerably blown pony. That same day, at the polo -match, his mother, Lady Torquilstone, was pointed out to her by Mrs. De -Wolfe; a tall, supremely well dressed, well preserved, arrogant woman, -who looked as if the whole of Ranelagh was her private property, and -most of the crowd, insufferable intruders. - -"So that was her mother-in-law!" said Nancy to herself. Her -mother-in-law's husband, was a dapper, prancing sort of little man, -with fierce eyebrows, and a hard stare. - -As Mrs. De Wolfe and her companion were motoring back to town, they -passed Captain Mayne, who waved to them from the coach. - -"It's most extraordinary," said the old lady, "that since he has come -home, I've seen so little of Derek. Long ago when with his uncle, he -was in and out of my place like a dog in a fair! Now he has merely left -a formal card, and although I have twice asked him to dinner, he has -been engaged. _My_ conscience is clear, I have not offended him in any -way, and I can't bear to be dropped by my young friends, to say nothing -of old ones. By the way, Nancy," glancing at her companion, "perhaps -you are the guilty party. Did he by any chance make love to you?" - -"Oh, no; no indeed," replied Nancy, with reassuring emphasis. - -"Well of course in those days, you must have been a little girl in -short skirts, with your hair down your back, and I'm quite sure that -Derek Mayne would never look at a flapper." - -Although Nancy and Captain Mayne maintained a cautious distance, -they were brought in spite of themselves into close contact at the -Hicks--Dawson, wedding. The ceremony was a grand affair; everything was -done in a lavish, if somewhat showy way. Nancy was not a bridesmaid, -for Mrs. Hicks had intervened, and helped her out, with a series of the -most extraordinary excuses,--these being accepted by Jessie, with a -somewhat indifferent grace. - -The church, which was rather small, was handsomely decorated, and -crammed to the doors. With respect to the guests, Mrs. Hicks had -figuratively "gone forth to the highways and hedges, and compelled them -to come in." Old planter friends; recent fellow-passengers, and even -the inmates of her "family hotel." Mrs. De Wolfe and Nancy were among -early arrivals at the church, and the latter drew many admiring eyes; -her gown and hat were white; she looked bridal herself! white suited -her wonderful complexion, and reddish-brown hair. Almost at the last -moment, and when the bridesmaids were actually assembled in the porch, -Captain Mayne,--very smart in frock-coat, and lavender gloves,--came -strolling up the aisle, glancing from side to side, in search of an -empty space! Mrs. De Wolfe's quick eye caught his. She made a little -signal, he crushed into her pew, and took a seat between Nancy, and the -door. - -The organ pealed, the choir leading the procession, advanced slowly up -the aisle. Jessie, carrying herself with dignified self-possession, -looked unusually well,--indeed quite at her best. Not so, the waiting -bridegroom; for if his new coat was creaseless, his countenance was -painfully distorted. He appeared to be pitiably nervous, and was -struggling with a (happily groundless) fear, that he had lost the -ring! Jessie was staunchly supported by her mother, rustling in a -brilliant blue costume,--destined to open the eyes of the Meaches, and -other neighbours. Meanwhile Nancy, whose attention had been riveted -on Jessie, became suddenly alive to the appalling consciousness, that -the last time she listened to these prayers, and adjurations, they had -been addressed to herself,--and the man who stood beside her! She felt -overwhelmed by the shock of this poignant memory; how mean and cruel of -fate to drag them together in such a heartless fashion; each sentence -now felt like a separate stab. - -At Fairplains, the service had fallen on more or less deaf ears; here, -she was acutely alive to every syllable. Did her companion remember? -She stole a swift glance at Mayne; he was looking straight before him, -and his profile was absolutely impassive. Such were the close quarters -in the pew, that their elbows were almost touching: could he feel how -she was trembling? When it came to the words, "_forsaking all other, -keeping only to him, as long as ye both shall live_," Nancy, in spite -of a determined effort at self-control, felt herself shaking from head -to foot. The position was to the last degree embarrassing, and painful; -compelled to listen to the celebration of Holy Matrimony, side by side -with the man to whom she had been married,--and from whom she had run -away! was an ordeal almost too terrible to be endured. Her face seemed -to be on fire, her lips were twitching convulsively, as she kept her -head down, and supported herself by the front of the pew. - -Oh! what a relief, when they knelt, and she could more or less hide -herself; but she was so unstrung and agitated that she let fall her -prayer-book and her bag! Mayne picked them both up, and as he gravely -restored them, he glanced at her heightened colour, and averted eyes. -It seemed positively cruel to scrutinize her,--his bride of two and a -half years! for in spite of his apparent composure he had not failed to -realize the extraordinary situation, and Nancy's miserable confusion. - -Strange to say, Mrs. De Wolfe was totally unaware of the little drama -beside her; her attention had been closely engaged in viewing with -much amusement the extraordinary collection of people that Mrs. Hicks' -cards of invitation had assembled.--The end of the service found Nancy -calmer; bodily release was at hand; but her mind had been grasped by -a penetrating thought. She had made a vow more than two years ago; -a vow to this man beside her, a vow she had deliberately broken. -Would God punish her? It was the first time she had been invaded by -this idea.--She glanced instinctively at her companion. Apparently -he had not given the situation a moment's thought; and was carefully -extracting from its haven of refuge, a beautiful, glossy new hat. And -now the bride and bridegroom came pacing down the aisle, and Teddy, who -had completely recovered his poise, halted as he passed, and said "You -two," glancing from Mayne to Nancy, "must come out, and sign." - -There was nothing else for it! Mayne at once stepped forth, Nancy -followed him, and they fell into line behind the bridesmaids, and not a -few who saw them, thought, "What a strikingly good-looking couple!" - -They entirely eclipsed the real pair. Such a crowd in the vestry, such -kissing and chattering!--Mrs. Hicks' voice, high above every other, -Jessie radiant, with veil thrown back, kissed Nancy,--and Mayne kissed -_her_! - -When it was his turn to sign the register, he wrote, "Derek D. Mayne, -Captain," then passed the pen to Nancy. For a moment she hesitated; -she felt his eyes fixed upon her, and with a sudden and inexplicable -impulse, and a very shaky hand, she scrawled, "Nancy Mayne": it was -almost illegible; an inkstained spider could have done as well, if not -better. She happened to be the last to sign, and no one looked over the -register, except Mrs. Hicks,--who saw to everything;--little escaped -that sharp-eyed matron, who instantly recognizing this unexpected -signature, glanced quickly from the page to Mayne, and gave him a bold, -and unmistakable wink. - -The reception, which took place at a neighbouring hotel, was very -crowded, very noisy, and very lively,--precisely what was to be -expected from anything in which Mrs. Hicks had a hand! The presents -on show, were well worthy of exhibition,--the refreshments were -first-rate, the band not too blatant, and the champagne unexceptional. -It was agreed by their many friends, that the Hicks' had spared no -expense, and given the marriage "Tasmasha" in great style. - -The crowd, crush, heat, and striving to be gay, natural, and like -herself, left Nancy to return to her temporary home, figuratively in -the condition of some half-dead, battered flower! - -The memory of the ceremony, held her in a vice-like grip; as for -signing the register,--_what_ had possessed her? Was it a compelling -look in Mayne's eyes, or was it a spasmodic effort of conscience? In -the crush, at the reception, although she did not actually come across -Mayne, she had seen him more than once. He had assisted to tie a shoe -at the back of the motor which was to bear the happy couple away, and -was active and prominent among the mob that threw rice. There had been -neither slipper, nor rice, at _their_ wedding! - -Soon after this eventful occasion, one morning in the Row, Mrs. Speyde -rode up to Nancy, and said to her escort, "Do you go away, Tony,--I -want to have a talk with Nancy." - -"No fear!" was the brotherly reply. - -"But you really _must_," she persisted. "I particularly want to tell -Nancy a secret,--though Mrs. De Wolfe says she can't keep one,--and -that her face always gives her away." - -"One of your good stories, I suppose; well, _I_ may as well hear it -too!" - -"No, no," protested Nancy, with a nervous laugh, "I never listen to -Josie's stories,--one, was more than enough!" - -Mrs. Speyde knew from long experience, that her brother could be -stubborn when it suited him, so she said, "Well, don't ask me to oblige -you, dear Tony, next time you are in a hole, or otherwise." Then -turning to Nancy, "I'll come in early this evening and talk, whilst you -are dressing," and with a nod, she wheeled her horse about, and rode -away. - -At half-past seven, as Nancy, seated before her glass, was taking down -her masses of hair, there was a sharp knock at the door, which the maid -opened, and Mrs. Speyde sailed in. A shimmering cloak covered her smart -French gown, and a diamond bandeau sparkled in her black hair. As she -advanced, she discarded the mantle, and displayed a smart, and very -_décolleté_ red gown. - -"I've got 'em all on to-night!" she announced. Then, as the maid -disappeared, she sat down, crossed her knees, and took out a cigarette. -"A cigarette makes me talk," she added. "This is a Doucet frock, Nancy, -what do you think of it? My maid says the body has no back!" - -"Nor much front either," said Nancy, as she inspected her friend; -"indeed I call it an _a_ffront," and she laughed. - -"How dare you?" - -"Oh, I'm so thin, it's all right! Now on you,--it might be----" and she -hesitated. - -"Impossible!" declared Nancy. - -"Dear, beautiful young creature, what a lovely neck! However, I -didn't dress an hour earlier, and rush over here, to discuss necks, -and bodies; I've come to break it to you gently, that I'm thinking of -settling down at last." - -"You mean getting married?" - -"Yes. Giving up little suppers in Soho, racing, and gambling,--and -turning over a new leaf." - -"And who is to be the happiest of men?" - -"I should think you might easily guess." - -"Not so easily,--you have such crowds of men friends. Is it Colonel -Deloraine?" - -"Is it my grandfather!" she scoffed. "No! a thousand times no! Well, -I won't keep you on tenterhooks,--it's Derek Mayne! You know him." A -slight pause, and a quick glance. "I say! Nancy, why do you look so -funny, and surprised?--I'm not poaching on _your_ preserves, I know!" - -"I'm not looking funny or surprised," she managed to protest, and Josie -was too much wrapped up in her subject, too anxious to talk, to notice -that she was more or less confused. - -"He is such a dear fellow, straight as a die! one of the living best; -not very emotional, you know,--keeps his feelings to himself, hates -spooning, and all that sort of thing! Remember long ago, when I kissed -him under the mistletoe,--he didn't like it a little bit!" - -"Did he not?" said Nancy, who was carefully collecting hairpins. "I'm -rather surprised at that." - -"I'm dining and doing a theatre with him to-night.--I expect he has -got another man and girl,--he is so frightfully proper. Well, my dear, -the whole thing will suit me down to the ground; I shall love to go -to India, just to see the Land of Regrets, and later on, we'll settle -ourselves comfortably in our own county." - -"Yes, er ... er ... will you?" - -"Why of course,--at Maynesfort--our ancestral home. What fun I shall -have turning out the garrets! I believe they are full of lovely old -things, hustled away by the late Mrs. Mayne, who was a Victorian lady, -and loved crewel-work antimacassars, chromo-lithographs; bead mats, and -wax flowers!" - -"Is anything settled?" inquired Nancy, with her eyes fixed upon her -hairpins. - -"Not yet, the fact is there is a little bit of a hitch,--and I believe -you are just the one person who can help me,--and that's why I'm here! -Oh yes, my dear, although you look so calmly indifferent, and can only -throw me a casual yes or no; you knew Derek in India! Tell me honestly, -Nancy,--did you ever hear a story about him and a _girl_? No, don't -get so red, I'm not going to tell you one of _mine_, I want to know -one of _his_! The uncle seems to have an idea, that Derek got himself -into a mess--a nasty scrape--with some woman in India,--black, for -choice,--but I'm sure that wouldn't be Derek's form. The old man is -anxious; he has talked to me,--I may tell you that he adores me, for -I amuse him and flirt with him.--Derek was out there for four years, -and I need not assure you, one can manage to get through a good deal of -mischief, in _that_ time.--I've done my level best to pump Derek, but -it was no go; I had better luck with one of his pals, Major Sanders, -who is in the same regiment.--I screwed it out of _him_, that he -believes there _is_ something,--although he cannot name the lady. For -the last couple of years, Derek has been short of money; he doesn't -join in things as he used to do, and he sold two ripping polo ponies. -Major Sanders thinks there may be some horrible creature, who claws -half his income, as blackmail!" - -Nancy, who had been brushing her hair, now swept a quantity over her -face, which was burning. _She_ was the horrible creature who twice a -year, received, but rejected, the half of Captain Mayne's income. - -"Tell me, Nance, did _you_ ever hear anything?--what was he like, in -those days?" - -"Much the same as now," she murmured, through her veil of shining locks. - -"More cheery and go-ahead?" - -"Oh yes,--I think perhaps he was." - -"I feel I knew Derek, and I'm certain, there's something on his -mind,--some _secret_; but whatever it is, cart-horses would not drag -it from him! He knows Aunt Julia, of course. If only she were at home, -she would throw a search-light on the mystery. I never met such a woman -for getting to the bottom of a business; but she won't be back till -September! Tell me, Nancy, did Derek Mayne know any girls, when you met -him?" - -"Oh yes; he knew three or four planters' daughters." - -"Did he flirt with them?" - -"No, never, that I saw: he only cared for sport, and tennis." - -"Well, I have reason to know that Derek likes _me_; we've been pals -since we were children, and if only this little mystery was cleared up, -I'd be perfectly happy! After all, there may be nothing in it,--what do -you say?" - -Nancy threw back her flowing hair, and looked up at Josie, who had -risen, and was standing beside her,--one hand on her slim hip--the -other fingering a cigarette. "I say ..." she paused ... and then, -taking her courage in both hands, "I say, that from what I know of -Captain Mayne,--I don't think he will ever marry!" - -"What preposterous nonsense!" exclaimed her visitor. "I know it's -not envy on your part, my child, for you don't like one another,--as -anyone can see with half an eye. He will marry: in fact he must -marry, and soon. His uncle is getting rampageous, and declares, that -if Derek hangs back,--he will take a wife himself. Derek and I, will -get on splendidly together," announced Josie, now walking about the -room, "he is so steady, and I'm just exactly the opposite!--I won't -be sorry to have a home of my own,--for I'm dead tired of my present -existence; a sort of life, the American summed up as, 'One damned thing -after another!'--Ah, here comes your maid with your frock; oh, my -dear, what a dream!--so I'll clear out and leave you, to put on your -rouge.--Joking apart, darling, you do look white; you've not been up to -the mark just lately, I expect you want a tonic." - -"Oh no," said Nancy, rising. "Of course going about from morning till -night, and dancing from night till morning, _is_ rather fagging, but -I'm all right." - -"Well, my sweet lamb, all _I_ can say is, that you _look_ all wrong; -however, I suppose you know best. Mind you keep my little secret." - -She halted on her way to the door, and looked back with eyes of -expressive significance, then, satisfied with a nod, she swept out. - - - - - CHAPTER XXXI - - NEWENHAM COURT - - -Newenham was a real eighteenth-century village, chiefly composed of -red brick flat-faced houses,--some shyly withdrawn from the road, -behind prim little gardens, others standing boldly upon the street. -There was a dumpy, contented-looking old church, an ivy-clad parsonage, -and an ancient inn, formerly a noted posting-house; now resuscitated, -after nearly a century of neglect, as a halting-place and garage. The -Court was situated in a land of heavy trees, green slopes and great -peace; its back entrance opened directly into the village, but from an -opposite direction a long and imposing avenue, with gates guarded by a -pair of fierce stone wolves, wound up to the hall door. - -The Court was a mixture of the Georgian and Victorian period, without -any claim to architectural beauty; but it had the dignity of mellow -age, and solid prosperity. The entrance faced north, and looked upon -wide grass slopes, crowned by heavy plantations. In the interior was a -vast hall, popular as a lounge and general sitting-room. Here people -sat, read, had tea, played Bridge and had liberty to smoke. A spacious -drawing-room, library, dining and billiard-rooms opened to right and -left. - -Almost every window in the Court commanded a view, and most of the -sitting-rooms had French windows opening to the ground. Upstairs -the passages were narrow, and rambling, with very low ceilings, and -unexpected steps,--but the adjoining bedrooms dwelt long in the -affectionate memory of many guests. These were furnished to suit -the period, with large four-posters, and small looking-glasses, but -were supplied with modern mattresses, comfortable armchairs, and -the latest thing in Jacobean chintz! Here were writing-tables, well -supplied,--including stamps,--fresh flowers, the newest books, and in -season, the most cheerful fires. - -Mrs. De Wolfe escorted her young friend all over the premises; she -saw not only the kitchen, the still-room, the Justice's room, but the -two apartments once occupied by the old lady's sons,--and now closed. -Their mother displayed their books, and toys, of childhood,--as well -as the trophies, and treasures of later years. The south side of the -Court, overlooked a well-timbered park, and winding river; immediately -in front, lay smooth green lawns, bounded right and left, by long -herbaceous borders, and rose-covered pergolas. Somehow this unusual -display gave the impression that an army corps of flowers, had escaped -from the grim walled garden,--which lay half concealed beyond the -shrubberies--and encamped in the grounds; immediately below the lawns -were tennis courts; these were pointed out to Nancy by her hostess, as -one of the chief features of the place. - -"It is not for its gardens,--which as you see, are quite -unique,--having boldly come out of bounds, and run into the park,--nor -yet, for some very remarkable old furniture, nor even for its good -dinners, that the Court is celebrated," said its mistress. "It is -famed, for having the best tennis courts on this side of the county! -My two boys were wonderful players,--Hughie was a champion, and in -their day, the great tennis week took place _here_. There was always -an immense gathering, we provided lunch and refreshments in big -tents,--and the house was packed to the garret! When I am at home, I -still endeavour to keep up Newenham Tennis week. I needn't tell you, -that I never played tennis myself,--_my_ game was croquet, in the good -old days when croquet hoops were a generous size; but I still like to -keep the tennis going,--indeed I don't suppose my neighbours would -allow me to drop it; they consider it hard case, that it is not an -annual fixture; but when I _am_ here, I do my best to hold the meeting -in all its glory. It is true, that, as it has been hinted to me, 'I now -do very little for the county in the way of entertaining,' so I feel -bound to put my best foot forward, once in a way. I fill the house with -tennis-playing neighbours, I invite the residents for miles, I engage a -band that I board in the village,--two extra cooks, tents, waiters, and -supply all the delicacies of the season, and I offer, last not least, -prizes that are worth while. There is tennis, more or less all day, the -young people dance in the racquet court at night, others play Bridge, -or billiards; oh, what a week it is! You will see, that I shall not -be at home, more than a few days,--before letters come pouring in, to -inquire the date of the Newenham Tennis Tournament?" - -"It must be an immense undertaking for you," said Nancy, "but -personally I think it will be great fun! I will help you, write out the -invitations, and do the flowers, and any odd jobs you can find for me." - -"Thank you, my dear, I'm sure you will be useful, but I generally get a -man, to arrange dates, events, handicaps and so on, and more or less to -run the show. I give him _carte blanche_; you shall be deputy hostess, -and I will sit in my arm-chair,--and take all the credit! Four years -ago, Derek Mayne was my helper,--I don't know who I shall have this -time; perhaps Dudley Villars? he is not much of a tennis player, nor -what I call practical, but he knows how to lay out money, and to make -things go smoothly." - -"And when do you think, you will have this tournament?" - -"In about a fortnight,--or three weeks. First of all, I must go round, -and look up my friends; and as soon as I have put the house in order, -and reported myself to my people in the village, and had the Rectory -people up to dinner, you and I will sally forth, and pay a round of -calls." - -Nancy had been given a delightful bedroom; it faced due south, her -windows commanded the park, the shining river, a far-away distant -blur of hills, immediately below lay the velvet lawns, and wide -grassy walks, under rose-shaded pergolas. The whole place, seemed to -be enveloped in an atmosphere of peace and good-will. "Only for one -thing," she said to herself, "how very _very_ happy I should be here!" - -The afternoon when Nancy and her friend set forth in a new motor to pay -a round of visits, the old lady said, "My first, must be to Richard -Mayne; my old friend met with an accident a couple of months ago, -and has been laid up ever since. I believe he is a shocking patient, -impossible to keep indoors." - -As they sped noiselessly along, she continued to talk about him. "He -has been a widower for fifteen years,--his wife was always a delicate -creature. She had a good deal of money,--which as they have no family, -goes back to her relations. The Maynes,--the real name was Delamaine, -but a Puritan ancestor chopped it up--the Maynes, have always been -spendthrifts, and compelled to marry money! The property, has dwindled -down to about a thousand acres, thanks to Mayne's ancestors' rage for -gambling. It is said, that when they could find no other method, they -used to race _worms_ upon a deal table! The table is still exhibited at -Maynesfort, and I have an idea, that the old gentleman is quite proud -of it. If it were my property,--it would have been burnt long ago." - -Maynesfort was ten miles from Newenham,--a distance soon covered by -Mrs. De Wolfe's new "Rolls-Royce." As they turned into the gates, she -said to Nancy, "You see it is a fine old place, and well kept up. It's -a sort of estate, which having a great deal of wood, and vast gardens, -and no fat farms, more or less eats its head off! Derek Mayne is bound -to marry money, and I must say this,--that whoever he does marry, will -be a lucky girl!" - -Old Mr. Mayne, supported by a nurse, received the two ladies in the -library: he was able to rise and hobble towards them, leaning upon a -stick,--and offered his friend a most affectionate welcome. - -"Well Elizabeth!" he said, "I'm delighted to see you, it's a good sight -for old eyes," shaking her by the hand. "This time, I hope, you have -come home to stay." - -"Oh, I make no rash promises," she answered with a laugh. "Now, -Richard, please sit down--and don't do company manners for us. This is -my young friend, Miss Travers," she added, presenting Nancy. - -"Oh yes, Miss Travers,--I have heard of you before. Was it not to you, -that my old friend Fletcher left his property?" - -"Yes," she answered, "a most unexpected legacy." - -"Your father was his manager, I understand?" - -"He was, but Fairplains originally belonged to him." - -"Oh!" exclaimed the old gentleman with a look of blank surprise. - -"And I'm afraid, he lost it through _me_." - -"My dear young lady, surely you are not serious!" - -"Yes, as I was delicate, I had to be sent to England, when I was a -small child, and he was constantly coming over to see me, leaving a -manager to look after the estate, the manager robbed him, and ran away -with the money, leaving no end of debts, and difficulties for father." - -"Well, I am glad it has gone back to _you_," said Mr. Mayne politely. -"By the way, you knew my nephew Derek, I believe he stayed at -Fairplains?" - -"Yes,--for a short time." - -"A nice fellow, isn't he, and a capital _shot_?" - -Nancy hesitated for a moment, and then replied: "I--suppose he is." - -"Ah! I see he is not your sort.--He never was much of a ladies' man, -was he?" looking over at Mrs. De Wolfe, who had been conferring with -the old gentleman's nurse. "I expect, we shall have him down in a week -or two for the cricket and tennis." - -Old Mr. Mayne then proceeded to talk about himself,--he gave full -particulars of his accident, how the horse, had slipped up and rolled -upon him, and then galloped home: the terrible consternation there had -been when Rufus had appeared in the stable yard--without his master; -next he discussed his doctor, the London specialist, and finally -dropped into the local gossip. - -During the latter part of this séance, Nancy had been sent out in -charge of the nurse, to see the picture gallery and the gardens, and -she received an impression of age, refinement, and large outlay. -Certainly Maynesfort was a beautiful old place, and she did not wonder -that its present owner was so pathetically anxious, that it should -remain in the family,--and never endure the degradation of being let! - -This visit to old Mr. Mayne proved to be the first of a long series. -The Hillsides were at home, also the Millers, in fact most of Mrs. -De Wolfe's friends, had shifted their quarters from London or Cowes, -into the nice cool green country. No, not cool, for the weather in -August proved to be unusually warm, the grass was burnt to a yellow -brown; Mrs. De Wolfe's gardeners were kept incessantly occupied with -hose, and water can: at times, there was scarcely a breath of air, and -the great trees stood solid in the heat haze. After sundown, Nancy -would run out to the garden, and gather fruit for dessert--apricots in -mellow perfection, off the hot brick wall; she would also go round, and -inspect the village cattle trough, and see that their own dogs, had -water in their bowls, and cheer up Bob, a gasping brown spaniel. - -In a month's time, she had contrived to make herself thoroughly at -home amid her new surroundings, had been presented to the village, and -parsonage, and made friends with most of the old women, and children in -Newenham, also with the village dogs,--and indeed the post-office dog, -a mongrel, like Togo, exhibited an ardent desire to attach himself to -the "new young lady," as she was generally called. As August advanced, -Mr. Mayne, attended by nurse, and valet, was convalescing at the -seaside, his nephew was shooting in Scotland, but the remainder of the -neighbours were at home, making the most of the very shining hours, at -picnics, cricket matches, and little impromptu dances. The Hillsides -were particularly gay, and entertained a large house party. - -Although a certain amount of state was maintained, such as big stepping -horses, and powdered men-servants, the _ménage_ at the castle, was -never taken very seriously; her ladyship was frequently in trouble with -servants; household matters rarely ran smoothly, meals were unpunctual -and indifferent,--it was a young people's house; and the friends of -Josie and Tony, as long as they could have freedom, and dancing, and -smoking and jokes, were not super-critical. - -It was whispered that Lady Hillside was so intensely engrossed in works -of philanthropy, that she sometimes forgot she had invited guests, and -when they were ushered in by a bewildered butler, she would blandly -inquire "where they were staying?" or she would order a dinner for -twenty-four, and find that she had a party of eight, and when the party -were seated, what frightful gaps at the table! - -What was even more serious, she would invite two dozen of her confiding -neighbours, and order the cook-housekeeper to provide for six. Then -what awful waits ensued, whilst the distracted staff in the kitchen, -scrambled together an impromptu meal, and the men-servants elongated -the dinner table. Such an erratic mistress, drove her retinue almost -crazy. Good and efficient servants took their departure, with the -result, that elderly guests who visited the castle,--rarely repeated -the experiment. - -The last week of August, was fixed upon for the tennis tournament, and -for a long time previously, Mrs. De Wolfe and Nancy had been engaged in -making preparations. There would be a number of guests staying in the -house. Talking over the list, Mrs. De Wolfe announced: - -"I shall get Dudley to do master of the ceremonies, and ask Roger De -Wolfe,--he is my heir, such a dear good stupid fellow,--to help to -manage the scoring, handicapping, and judging. - -"There will be Tony and Josie, two Miller girls, Major Horne and his -mother, young Wynne of the Blues, Cobden Gray, our great tennis player, -Miss Strong the lady champion, old Sir Hubert Hamilton, to sit about -and walk with _me_, and of course Derek Mayne,--he must be back from -Scotland by this time." - -"But why do you ask him to stay in the house?" inquired Nancy. - -"Because it will save his going backwards and forwards to Maynesfort -twice a day. The old man is very stingy of petrol; everyone has -their pet economy: his is petrol,--and mine is string. I'm fond of -Derek,--though he has given me the cold shoulder,--still I intend to -have him here. Of course, I know _you_ do not like him, but as a Roland -for my Oliver, I shall invite one of your friends,--what do you say to -Mrs. Hicks?" - -"Mrs. Hicks?" - -"Yes! why not? I fancy she is at a loose end just now. She told me she -had never stayed much in the country,--at least it will be a novelty." - -"And so will _she_! It is very good of you to think of her, and I'm -sure she would love to come; the neighbours may think her a bit odd, -and loud,--and I shall take it upon myself to tone down some of her -costumes; but she has the best heart in the world: I shall never forget -her kindness to me,--when my father was dying; and in one way, she will -find herself in her element here, she is a wonderfully strong tennis -player." - -"You don't mean to tell me, that she _plays_?" - -"I should rather think she did!--and I venture to say, will carry off -one of your beautiful and valuable trophies. Where shall we put her?" - -"In the blue bedroom next to you, so that you can talk old times to -your hearts' content. Shall I write, or will you?" - -"Oh, I think the invitation should go from the lady of the house." - -"Very well, my dear, I will ask her to come a couple of days before the -crowd, and I'll send off a note by this very post." - - * * * * * - -A letter from Mrs. Hicks, Newenham Court, Moonshire, to B. Hicks, Esq., -M.D., Panora, near Khotagheri, Nilgiris, India: - - MY DEAR HUBBY, - - Won't you open your eyes to see where _I_ am? I arrived a week ago, - to stay with Nancy's friend, Mrs. De Wolfe, and am now living among - the very highest company, and on the fat of the land! This is a - lovely old place, something like what you read of in novels--with a - great park, and lots of stiff-looking servants, and palms in the - sitting rooms, and wonderful table silver. Here up in my room, - every time I come into it, I find a fresh can of hot water standing - in the basin--but I believe there are six housemaids--and such - scented soap, and bath salts, and a big four-post bed, as soft as - whipped cream. A great tennis tournament is being held all this - week; so far I have done pretty well, in the 'ladies' doubles,' and - this house is as full as if it were a fashionable hotel. Most of - the people are strangers to me, except as tennis and Bridge - partners, Finchie's niece and nephew are here, the Hon. Mrs. - Speyde,--a black-eyed, flighty-looking widow,--and the Honourable - Tony Lamerton, her brother: not a bad sort, and a good tennis - player, but with a laugh to split your head! There is Major Horne, - I came home with him on board ship last time but one,--terribly - sea-sick he was too! and of all people in the world, who do you - think, but _Captain Mayne_! His uncle lives in these parts. - - Isn't it strange that he and Nancy should be staying in the same - house, and talking politely to one another, as if they were bare - acquaintances that had only lately met, for the first time? I - suppose they have to pretend, as they are keeping their past very - _dark_; and I believe they are both as obstinate as a pair of - commissariat mules. I noticed that he sat next her at dinner last - night, and they scarcely spoke, and they have played in the same - sets at tennis. I also notice that he plays as a 'bachelor' against - the married men. All the time, I'm the only one here, or in - England, who happens to know, that he and Nancy are married; and - when he addresses her as 'Miss Travers,' it's all I can do to hold - my tongue. At tennis, I think they sometimes forget their feud, for - I have heard him shout, 'Yours, Nancy,' and I have seen the two of - them laughing together,--but elsewhere, as far as their manners to - one another are concerned, they might have come out of a - refrigerator! - - I must say, it's an awful pity that such a handsome young couple - cannot make it up. I think Nancy should come forward,--being the - one in the wrong. She is a real darling, and such a beauty that - you'd never know her, and so nice and affectionate to a dowdy old - girl like _me_. I wish she and Mayne would make it up. I'd try my - hand, only you say I always make a botch of such affairs, blurt - out secrets, and give the show away. Well, well! perhaps something - may happen to put things right. - - Old Mrs. De Wolfe is wrapped up in Nancy, she might be her own - granddaughter; the girl goes about the place, as if she had lived - here for years; she is well liked too,--indeed _too_ much liked by - some! There's a dark foreign fellow, who is always trying to be her - shadow, and who dances with her of an evening, but as far as I can - see, I don't think Mayne minds--he has his own fish to fry! - - By the time this is in your hands, Jess and Teddy will have arrived, - and given you my news, and your new socks, and jerseys. I'm sending - you some postcards of this place; but they give a very poor idea of - its style. Many a time, I shall dream of it, I know, when I am back - with you in old Panora. You and I fancy our roses; well, you should - see those _here_; the Pergolas just smothered in them, and the - rosery a sight for angels; as for the apricots on the south wall, - my mouth waters, when I think of them! - - Mrs. De Wolfe herself, in spite of all her engagements, has been - mighty kind and friendly to me, and made me feel quite at _home_. - When you look at the postcard of this place, and think of me, you - will laugh at the idea. I play Bridge with her; my word! she is - first class. Sees mistakes--but never scolds--not like _you_! Once - she took me round the big garden all by myself. At the time, I felt - it a tremendous honour, but on second thoughts, I believe she - wanted to get something out of me about Nancy. She did her big best - to pump me about Mayne,--and the reason of their coolness, but for - once I was on my guard, and left her just as wise as ever! I'm - afraid I told one or two small lies, but that under the - circumstances, couldn't be helped. I'd give fifty rupees, cash down, - to see her face, when she hears the _truth_. I'll write from London - by next mail. - - Your affectionate wife, - SUSAN HICKS. - - - - - CHAPTER XXXII - - MRS. HICKS IMPARTS A SECRET - - -The letter from Mrs. Hicks to her "hubby" gave a fairly good sketch of -events at the Court. There had been tennis, boating, Bridge, dancing, a -certain amount of strolling about the lawns and turf walks, and sitting -in rustic arbours, with congenial companions. Mrs. Hicks had played -well, and vigorously in the married ladies against single, and it -seemed to Mayne like good old days, when she served her cleverly placed -balls, and shouted her triumphs. - -On her arrival at the Court, Nancy, her neighbour, had taken her -under her wing, inspected her wardrobe, subdued its too vivid colours -with lace and chiffon, altered the style of her friend's hats with -her own clever fingers, and made useful suggestions with regard to -coiffure. Also, she gave her the names and characteristics of expected -guests, and did her utmost to make her comfortable, and put her at -her ease,--and Mrs. Hicks was not ungrateful. As she stood patiently, -whilst the girl pinned and arranged a fichu upon her portly form, she -said, "I declare to you, Nancy, you've done more to fix me up, and show -me the ropes in two days, than my own girls in two years. Of course -they are busy with their love affairs,--and you have none,--and it's -your own fault. There isn't a young man I know, that can hold a candle -to Mayne, as to looks and manners. He took the shine out of them all, -at Jessie's wedding. _Why_ can't you make it up?" - -"It takes two to do that," said Nancy, as she took a pin out of her -mouth. - -"Ah, I suppose the letter you sent him choked him off? It's funny you -and he being in the same set, and him coming to stay in this very -house." - -"Yes: too funny to be pleasant." - -"Lots of girls like him; I saw that at Jessie's wedding, and when I -was down at Burlingham,--and there's one lady, unless I am greatly -mistaken, likes him uncommon,--that Mrs. Speyde, a niece of Finchie's. -She is always running after him, I am told. Maybe they'll run away -together, some day! Why, Nancy child, I declare you look quite vexed! -You're not jealous, are you?" - -"Of course not,"--now giving the fichu a twitch,--"what a ridiculous -idea." - -"Well, if he would only throw a book at you, before a witness,--and -then run away with someone, it would make matters so nice and simple." - -"Simple, yes, but not exactly nice."--After a moment's hesitation, and -a fresh pin, "I always thought you liked him, Mrs. Hicks." - -"So I do, but it's you, I'm _really_ fond of; it's for _your_ good I'm -thinking. Don't I remember you a little darling in your nurse's arms? -as for him, I only knew him for a matter of a few weeks. If you would -put your pride in your pocket, all might yet be well: that is to say, -_if_ you liked him. Do you Nancy? Come now, own up?" - -Nancy made no reply for some moments; at last she said, "I like him -better than I did; there, now your fichu is all right, and looks very -nice; you must wear it this evening,--but mind you don't put it on -wrong side out! Now I must run and dress," and imprinting a kiss on -Mrs. Hicks' hard and healthy cheek, she hurried out of the room. - -A few days later, Nancy had reason to repeat Mrs. Hicks' question, -was she jealous? Strange to say, the idea did not now appear to be -so supremely ridiculous. Within the last week, she'd been a little -startled at the discovery of emotions, the existence of which took her -by surprise! She found, that it gave her a painful sensation to see -Josie and Captain Mayne, on such excellent and intimate terms. They -sat and talked, motored, and danced together--almost as if they were -an engaged couple. She endeavoured to console herself with the fact, -that it was Josie who was playing the part of enchantress: she had a -wonderful power of appropriating the interest of a man. - -It was a by no means unusual sight, to behold the fascinating Mrs. -Speyde, encompassed by a little crowd of admirers;--whilst other and -far prettier women were overlooked, and neglected. Of late she had an -instinct that relations between herself and Josie were changed; and -that Josie no longer liked her. More than once, she had caught her -black eyes fixed upon her with a steady and vindictive glare; in her -remarks there was a belittling and malicious note--and she had felt -herself laughed at, and so to speak "baited," for the entertainment -of the company,--yes, no later than that very day at breakfast! Josie -was a splendid mimic, and if her manner was rather boisterous, no one -could tell a story with more vivacity and point. Her usual plan was -to relate the joint adventure of herself, and victim,--describing it -with grotesque exaggeration, and gesture, and making her unfortunate -butt, look contemptibly foolish, and ridiculous. Expostulation was -useless,--after all, the story was _not_ told behind the subject's -back, but boldly face to face, with audacious effrontery, and Nancy's -feeble explanations, were drowned in shouts of laughter. The merest -incident was sufficient excuse, on which to hang a tale, and Josie's -victims never had the wit or spirits, to carry the war into the enemy's -quarter,--and the tyrant scored. - -Although Captain Mayne and Nancy saw but little of one another indoors, -they had been drawn to play together in the "Ladies' and gentlemen's -doubles." This had excited the jealousy of Mrs. Speyde, and although -she intrigued and manœuvred, nothing she did or said, could alter the -detestable fact. Nancy knew by instinct, that her late friend hated to -see her and Captain Mayne together,--even if it were only for a few -minutes; when they barely exchanged a word! - -The weather was perfect, though still rather warm; and the scene in -the grounds and around the tennis courts, had been described in the -local paper, as "brilliant." No such successful tournament had taken -place for years; the sun had shone, and the world and his wife had -flocked to Newenham from far and near, and there been entertained, with -first-class tennis, excellent refreshments, and any amount of grapeseed! - -It had been a particularly strenuous day for Nancy, who had not only -played in two hard fought competitions, but in acting deputy hostess, -among the very mixed multitude in the tents; seeing that ices and -cup were unfailing, and in distributing little civilities among the -crowd,--with Sir Dudley as her attendant. When the last game had been -contested, and the last straggling group had dispersed, she strolled -towards the river, accompanied by Mrs. Hicks, who pounced upon her -bodily, and said, "Come you here, you little Nancy girl! I never get -a word with you these times," taking her arm, and with a significant -glance at Sir Dudley, she added, "turn about is fair play; he has had -more than his share," she continued, as he moved off. - -"My goodness! how the time flies, I've been here five days, and they -have gone like greased lightning. Let us go and sit on the bench by the -boat-house, and see if there is a bit of air from the river!" - -"You played in your very best form to-day," said Nancy. "Your service -was splendid; I felt immensely proud of you." - -"Thank you, my dear, the same to you!" she rejoined, seating herself -with a sigh of satisfaction. "Who's them two over in the boat? I'm -getting a bit short-sighted?" - -"Mrs. Speyde, and Captain Mayne." - -"They don't seem to be rowing?" - -"No, just drifting,--and talking." - -"Drifting! so they are,--well! well! well! Look here, Nancy girl, I've -got something to say to you. There's no one in the boat-house, is -there?" peering round. - -"No one,--and is it really such a secret?" and she laughed. - -"You shall judge for yourself! The last three days I have kept my eyes -open." - -"Are they _ever_ shut?" - -"Now don't interrupt me, with your stupid jokes," protested her -companion, with a touch of impatience. "I've seen, that you and him, -for all your stand-off airs,--like one another right well." - -"What makes you think so?" - -"The use of my senses. I've noticed you smiling and jabbering together -just like old times,--although you were only talking tennis; and I -believe you're a bit jealous,--always a _very_ healthy sign. Now, my -dear child, take an old friend's advice, and don't make _the_ mistake -of your life! Good fortune, and a providential chance, have brought you -and Mayne here together. Are you going to let him drift away?" - -"But why do you talk as if _I_ were the one to act and come forward?" - -"Because you are! Now listen to me," seizing her hand in a firm grip, -"it is for you to make the advance; you gave him the go-by; it was -certainly an amazing act for a girl of your age. Now I think you have -come to your senses; but he is frightened of your money. Yes!" she -continued with emphasis, "he as good as told Teddy, and I dug it out of -_him_,--that had you not been an _heiress_, he would have been willing -to make it up!" - -"He said that,--did he?" said Nancy with a quick catch in her breath. - -"So Teddy informed me, and I have always found him to speak the -truth. He told me, as a dead, dead, secret,--and mind you let it go -no further, for if Teddy knew, he'd _eat_ me,--although I _am_ his -mother-in-law! Seeing how things are, and being really fond of you, -Nancy, I thought I'd not allow love to pass out of your life, without -doing my best to interfere, and stop it." - -Nancy's colour was high, her heart beat unusually fast; here, indeed, -was a wonderful piece of information. So it was not altogether her -unpardonable flight,--but the money, that stood between them. She sat -for a long time in dead silence, with her eyes fixed upon the river. At -last she murmured, "I don't see how I could possibly do it." - -"You'll find it easy enough, once you and he are face to face; you -will never have a chance _here_; never a moment together, unless when -playing tennis: that gay lady in the boat, now lighting her cigarette -on his, takes right good care of that!" - -"But I thought you were so near-sighted?" said Nancy, with a faint -smile. - -"Only when it's convenient: and I thought perhaps you might not notice -the pair. Well, here is that long-legged young Tony and Miss Miller, -coming to fetch you," said Mrs. Hicks, rising as she spoke. "Think over -what I have told you, my dear child, and don't let matters slide! I'll -just go in, and get a bit of a rest before dinner,--my poor old joints, -ay, but they do ache!" - - - - - CHAPTER XXXIII - - AN INTERRUPTED INTERVIEW - - -The last set had been played, tennis prizes been distributed amid much -clapping and applause, performers and spectators had dispersed, the -great tennis week was over! - -Nancy, who felt mentally and bodily fatigued, contrived to escape -from her friends, to enjoy a short rest, and breathing time, before -the evening gaieties set in; and by devious and cunning short cuts, -made her way to a favourite seat, at the end of the least frequented -Pergola. Here for once, she found herself out of the public eye,--the -only eyes that rested upon her, were those of her companion, Bob, the -brown spaniel,--nephew to the dogs at Maynesfort. Bob detested tennis, -and had followed his mistress under the fond delusion that she was -about to take him for a nice run by the river; alas! no, she threw -herself down on a hard rustic bench, and heaved a long sigh. Poor -disappointed Bob was in complete sympathy with this frame of mind, and -inclined to sigh too. - -All day long, Nancy had borne the fierce light, that beats on a pretty -popular girl,--the most prominent figure in a society gathering; -as deputy hostess, tennis competitor, adviser, referee, arbitress -in little half-playful disputes, with an eye to the guests in the -refreshment tents, and in perpetual demand, here, there, and everywhere. - -Mrs. De Wolfe had abdicated and taken her ease, and an attitude of -serene detachment, seated among her contemporaries, and intimates; -all little anxieties and worries, were handed over to her vice-reine, -and although she had the gift of social grace, youth, and energy, -Nancy found the sceptre as heavy as lead! Here was Mrs. Harper looking -alarmingly red and explosive, because no one had escorted her to tea, -and there was Lizzie Stevens on the verge of tears, because the umpire -had given her two faults; Mrs. Fitzhammond had lost a dear old silver -brooch, she had had since she was a school-girl, and was unpleasantly -querulous, injured, and fussy; whilst Sutton the butler had informed -poor Nancy in a hollow whisper, that "the ice was running out!" - -Well, it was all over at last! and had been a surprising success; -but the deputy hostess felt completely exhausted, as she took off -her hat, and closed her eyes. The previous night, she had lain awake -for many hours, meditating on Mrs. Hicks' unexpected revelation. It -seemed to her, that she was approaching a crisis in her life: looking -into her own heart, she saw Derek Mayne; yes, Derek, and no one else. -Far removed from the tragedy of former associations, in another -hemisphere, and among other surroundings, she realized his personal -attraction, his upright character, unfailing good humour,--and for a -man,--surprising unselfishness! - -She had noticed his thoughtful attention to his uncle; his pleasant -ways to children, and to nobodies,--it was he, who had relieved her of -Mrs. Harper, and carried off that swelling matron, to enjoy ices, and -conversation (whilst Dudley Villars lay prone on the grass, at the feet -of the county's duchess, entertaining her with scraps of highly-spiced -scandal!). She recalled to mind, what a favourite he had been with her -father; how he had given her to him when on his deathbed; later how -fiercely she had thrust him aside, and fled. Yes! there was no doubt, -that _she_ was the offender; and it was for her, to venture the first -advance--an advance bristling with difficulties and dangers. If she -made an overture and was repulsed--how--how, could she ever hold up her -head again? on the other hand, if she made no sign, and he went away, -it would be something whispered,--for--_ever_. - -During the last few days she and Derek had been on easier terms; -naturally the tournament had thrown them together; more than once, he -had addressed her as "Nancy," and more than once, she had surprised -him surveying her with an expression of keen attention, and something -else--"What?" What it was she could not analyse; interest, yes, perhaps -interest; at any rate, the glance was neither cynical nor scornful! -Possibly it might mean, that he wished to speak to her, that--oh no, -never by word or look, had he intimated that he looked for any change -in their relations; if she was to say, or do anything that would count; -if she was to venture to break the ice, and her heart quailed at the -mere idea of such an undertaking,--it must be _soon_. On Saturday, -he was leaving the Court, and from what she could gather, shortly -returning to India; so it was a case of now, or never! How could she -begin?--she had not the gracious art of approaching the unapproachable. -As she sat meditating, and by no means fancy free, the thumping of -Bob's tail announced his welcome to someone; and opening her eyes, she -beheld the subject of her thoughts, rapidly approaching along the turf -walk. Was she asleep? or was his appearance the result of some strange -telepathy? - -How good-looking he was! a lover to gladden the eyes of any girl. His -flannels set off an admirable well-knit figure--the touch of scarlet in -his blazer, was eminently becoming to his dark hair and eyes; in one -hand he swung a bat, and was apparently pressed for time. - -"Well, what is it?" he inquired, as he came within earshot. - -"I'm sure I don't know!" she answered, now sitting erect. - -"But Mrs. Hicks told me to hurry here at once--she said you wished to -speak to me." - -"She must have been dreaming!" - -"On the contrary, she looked particularly wide awake, and would take no -refusal,--we are just getting up a match." Nevertheless, he lingered. - -"I should have thought you'd had enough of tennis for to-day," remarked -Nancy. - -"Yes, I daresay. You are in great form, you and I, are the proud -winners of the ladies' and gentlemen's doubles. I say----" he paused -abruptly. - -"What do you say?" she asked. - -"Well,--it's about that fellow Villars;--you will remember, I begged -you to drop him; and I find him here installed as Tame cat: in fact a -sort of Puss in Boots,--running the whole show!" - -"That's true," admitted Nancy, "but Sir Dudley was _l'ami de la maison_ -long before Mrs. De Wolfe knew me,--and surely you can scarcely expect -her to turn out her old friends on _my_ account,--besides, he is her -godson." - -"So you think that sanctifies him?" shifting his bat under his arm. - -"No, certainly not; but I do honestly believe, you are prejudiced and -that Sir Dudley is not any worse than his neighbours; he is religious -in his way too, always down to family prayers,--of course, attendance -is optional,--whilst _you_ appear with the hot dishes! He reads the -Scriptures beautifully,--I've never heard the twelfth chapter of -Ecclesiastes read with such expression." - -"If you would only take my word for it, the Song of Solomon is a -thousand times more in his line--all about my beloved, and roses, and -lilies." - -"Do you know, that he has a _wife_?" said Nancy expressively. - -"No, has he? Unhappy woman! but I _do_ happen to know, that he has run -away with another man's wife! Certainly, it was years ago,--if he made -any scandal with mine"--he paused and looked full into her eyes, "by -Jove I would kill him,--and I should _like_ to kill him!" - -Nancy burst into a peal of laughter. "How melodramatic you are! and how -you do abhor him!" - -"May I ask, if he is aware, that you have a husband?" Although his -manner chaffed her--his voice had a ring of earnestness. - -"What an absurd question; of course not! There isn't a soul in this -country, who's in the secret--except Mrs. Hicks." - -"I say," he exclaimed, "we are a fine couple of impostors! You may be -amused to hear, that my uncle has taken an immense fancy to you." - -"How nice of him." - -"And between ourselves, he thinks you would be an ideal niece-in-law. -The Maynes are poor, the place swallows up money, and the reigning -proprietor is obliged to get hold of a consort with coin." - -A thought instantly darted into Nancy's mind; here was her opportunity! -and as if in obedience to some irresistible force, she rose, with a -hammering heart,--looking, did she but know it, enchantingly pretty.--A -little pale perhaps, but stirred by some inward emotion, her lovely -face was unusually expressive. One or two rose leaves had fallen on her -uncovered hair, and the light between the branches overhead, sent the -shadows of leaves, to dance gaily upon her white skirt. - -"A wife with coin," repeated Nancy, speaking with a desperate effort, -and fixing her eyes upon the ground, "well! you did that yourself." - -"Quite unintentionally, I assure you," was the emphatic reply; "the -girl I married, was as poor as a church mouse! Nothing would tempt _me_ -to marry for money." - -"I suppose," began Nancy--and she hesitated. - -"You suppose what?" he asked sharply. - -"That if ... if ..." she stammered--for the tone of his voice had been -discouraging, and made her, if possible--more nervous. "If you could -forgive me,--do you think.... Oh, how _can_ I put it?..." and her voice -shook, "that _I_ could tempt you? Oh no, I don't mean _that_,--only I -don't want all that money; no one knows better than you do, that I -never was accustomed to riches, and--and I should be only too thankful, -to give it to you." - -Mayne stared at her amazed! She was no longer pale. - -"Nancy!" he exclaimed, "I remember how in old days you talked the -wildest nonsense, I don't suppose for a moment, that you know or mean, -one single word of what you are saying." - -"Yes, I do," she rejoined tremulously, "but I can promise you -this,"--her lips quivered--and she added with difficulty, "I will never -say it again," she paused, struggling between pride, and emotion. - -"Oh, my dear Nancy, if I could only believe you--don't you know----" - -"So here you are, Derek!" exclaimed a high, authoritative treble, -and through a breach in the Pergola, Mrs. Speyde appeared, waving an -imperative tennis bat. "Have you forgotten, that we are _all_ waiting -to make up a match?" She glanced sharply from him to Nancy. His face -wore a strained expression, as for the girl, she was the colour of a -crimson rambler! - -"Ah," with a little malicious laugh, "I see you have been talking -_secrets_. Yes, Miss Nancy, I always suspected that you knew a good -deal more about this gentleman than you pretended. Well, for the -present, you must leave the cat _in_ the bag. Derek," laying an -arresting hand on his arm, "you've _got_ to come!" - -Mayne drew back, but before anything further happened, Nancy had picked -up her hat, and vanished through an opening that led into the old -walled garden. - -That same evening, Nancy selected her most becoming frock, and took -particular pains with her hair--for she entertained high hopes, that -Mayne would seek her out, and endeavour to resume the conversation so -cruelly interrupted by Josie Speyde. At dinner, she saw nothing of -him,--as he happened to be on the same side of the table; later, as he -held the door for the ladies to pass forth, it seemed to her, that he -gave her a glance of particular significance; but strange to say, he -did not come into the drawing-room with the other men. - -About an hour later, when she was singing a duet with Sir Dudley, she -noticed him standing near the door. It struck her, that he looked pale -and rather stern,--as if he had been annoyed, or disappointed; he made -no effort whatever to speak to her for the remainder of the evening; -and she retired for the night, with an acute sense of hopelessness, and -depression. - - - - - CHAPTER XXXIV - - STRANDED! - - -The following morning the guests who still remained at the Court, made -up a party to attend a race meeting at Knapshot. Knapshot was thirty -miles away, and could be reached by rail,--as the Court was but a short -distance from a mean, and undeserving little station. However, most of -the party decided to go by motor; Mrs. De Wolfe, Mrs. Horne, Sir Dudley -and Nancy in the comfortable roomy Daimler, with Roger De Wolfe sitting -by the chauffeur, Major Horne, Billy Miller, Josie and Captain Mayne, -followed in the new Rolls-Royce. Several preferred to travel by rail, -and Mrs. Hicks remained at home, to rest her weary bones, and repose -upon her well-earned laurels. - -The races, though not particularly notable, offered good sport; the -lunch was excellent, the ladies had their fortunes told, and did a -little betting. Mrs. De Wolfe and Mrs. Horne elected to return by train -early in the afternoon, as there was a dinner-party at the Court that -night--the last function of the week, moreover, the old ladies found -motoring rather hot, and dusty; and escorted by Roger, left the rest of -the party to follow, enjoining on all, that on no account were they to -be late. - -"We will go back just as we came!" said Josie, "we played games all the -way, and don't want to break up our happy little set!" - -This arrangement left Sir Dudley and Nancy to share the Daimler -_tête-à-tête_, and she offered a seat to Billy, who, however -(naturally), preferred to travel in company with Major Horne! - -"We will take different roads," declared Josie, who seemed to have -assumed command of the whole party, "and race, and see which car gets -home first? The Charlton road is the shortest: but it's out of repair, -the other by Langford is a couple of miles longer--but good going all -the way. Shall we toss, Dudley?--come, be sporting, and have something -on!" - -They tossed accordingly, Mrs. Speyde won the long route--and booked a -bet of five pounds. - -With a good deal of laughing, and joking, the competitors started -together, but within a quarter of a mile, the cars had separated, the -Rolls-Royce to take a high road, more or less bordering the railway, -the Daimler to plunge into what seemed to be the very heart and soul of -the country. It was a light and lovely September evening, and they sped -along with noiseless ease,--considering the ruts. - -"This is a ripping good car!" remarked Sir Dudley, "and Josie's five -pounds is already in my pocket,--I suppose your chauffeur knows the -way?" - -"Oh yes," replied Nancy, "Saxton belongs to this part of the country, -he has been with Mrs. De Wolfe for years." - -The couple discussed the races, the fortune-teller, and other matters, -but neither appeared to be in a talkative mood. It was delightful -flying along these quiet, grass-bordered roads, and lanes, breathing -the soft delicious air, watching the homing birds, and the solemn rise -of a splendid harvest moon. Suddenly Sir Dudley said: - -"I thought Mayne's leave was up, and that he was sick of this country, -but I heard him tell a fellow at the races, that he was going to apply -for an extension." - -"Is he?" murmured Nancy, and a bright colour invaded her face. "Was -this the outcome of their interrupted interview?" - -"Yes, and the sooner he goes the better! Josie Speyde is carrying on -one of her most outrageous flirtations. Lord! what a number of them -I've seen! If I didn't know her so well, I would swear that this time, -she was in earnest. There was Chapman, Fotheringay, Montague----" - -"Oh! Sir Dudley, it really isn't fair, to tell tales of your own -cousin." - -"Josie wouldn't mind, on the contrary, she's proud of her scalps. She's -a queer woman, in her way--a freak! Here we are, on a by-road I see. -I suppose it's all right?" then as the car slowed down, and drew up -beside a picturesque old cottage, he added, "but what is he stopping -for?" - -"I expect to get water for the car," replied Nancy. "What a dear -place"--looking in through the open door--"there's such a darling oak -chest in the passage!" - -"Yes, I know your craze,--and I think I see some china on a dresser -further on! Do you wish to go in?" - -"Only just for a second,--it looks the sort of cottage where one -can pick up the most priceless treasures!" Before she finished the -sentence, Nancy was already in the passage. A stout, grey-haired woman -with a bulky figure and a pleasant face, appeared, wiping her hands. - -"I wanted to look at your beautiful old chest," explained the visitor. -"I caught sight of it through the open door." - -"You are very welcome, miss," she answered, "and there's a still -better one in the kitchen--if you care to see that? We have a good -few old things--that came down from Bode's grandmother--Bode was my -husband--he's dead, poor man--this ten year." - -Nancy followed the woman down a long flagged passage, and found herself -in a heavily-beamed, low room,--with a vast fireplace. Here she -discovered a fine oak settle, a dresser and a chest,--with the date, -sixteen hundred and seventy. Nancy was in raptures, and fell in love -with an old blue bowl, that she saw on the dresser. She admired it with -such heartfelt enthusiasm, that the woman,--honestly displaying various -cracks,--declared that "it had been her grandfather's, but now leaked. -If the young lady fancied it--she could have it for a shilling." - -But Nancy protested, and said, "I wouldn't dream of imposing on your -generosity"--she did not like to use the word "ignorance," and added, -"I will gladly give you a sovereign for it"--and produced her purse. -The bargain being concluded to their mutual satisfaction, and Sir -Dudley having approved of the family chest, and bench, they took leave -of the hostess, and returned to the entrance, but here, to their utter -and speechless amazement, there was no motor to be seen! - -"Where is he?" cried Nancy, looking up and down the road. "Has he taken -the car into the yard?" - -No, neither car, nor chauffeur were about the premises--they had -mysteriously disappeared,--as if dissolved into thin air. Whilst Nancy -and her companion stood bewildered, and exclaiming, a youth on a shaggy -colt trotted up. - -"Dan, did you see a motor?" demanded his mother. - -"I did, it passed me just now--going at a great rate." - -"What is to be done?" said Nancy, turning to Sir Dudley in despair. - -"I understand what's happened; the fellow didn't notice us getting -out, he was round in the yard at the time, and, thinking we were still -in the car, he has driven off, and left us! Is there any station near -this?" turning to the woman. - -"Yes, about two miles off, but there's few trains. This is a terrible -awkward place to get away from--being a bit out of the way." - -"I suppose you have a post-office within reach?" inquired Nancy. - -"Yes, in Lofty village,--a mile off." - -"Then let us send a wire for the car to return; Auntie Wolfe will be -most awfully fussed, if we are not back in time for dinner." - -"You can take a telegram, my lad?" said Villars, appealing to the young -man. - -"Oh yes, sir, for sure," he answered eagerly. - -"Then I've got a pencil, and," to Mrs. Bode, "if you'll let me have a -bit of paper, I'll just go inside and write it." He retired indoors, -and Nancy talked to the colt and Dan, and after a few minutes, Dudley -reappeared, and handed a message to the youth, along with a half-crown. - -"I'll give you something for yourself, when you come back; be as quick -as ever you can. It's half-past seven now," he added, looking at his -watch, and then glancing at Nancy, he nodded his head, and said, "There -will be no dinner party for you, and me." - -"Oh, if they deliver the message at the Court at once, say in half an -hour, the car should be here by nine. We will dash home, and appear in -time for dessert." - -"'I doubt it, said the carpenter, and shed a bitter tear,'" quoted -Villars. "Perhaps Mrs. Bode can find us something to eat?" he added. - -"I am sorry I haven't got no butcher's meat in the house, sir, but -there's fresh eggs, and cold bacon,--and good home-made bread." - -"There are worse things!" said Villars, "but I'm not hungry, I was -thinking of the young lady." - -"A cup of tea, and a slice of home-made bread, is what I should like, -if Mrs. Bode will be so kind,--and I shall make the most of my time, in -poking about among her nice old things, and there is my nice blue bowl, -which I intend to carry home, as a souvenir of this funny adventure. -Will you come and help me to ransack the cottage?" said Nancy. "I know -you have a _flair_ for old oak, and pewter too." - -"No," replied Villars, "I'll let you have it all your own way for once; -and leave you to gather up the spoil. I'll just stroll down the road -for half an hour,--and smoke a cigarette." - - - - - CHAPTER XXXV - - "EMPTY!" - - -Meanwhile the merry quartette in the Rolls-Royce had reached their -destination rather late, but before she rushed off to dress, Mrs. -Speyde eagerly inquired if Miss Travers, and Sir Dudley had arrived? - -"No, ma'am, not yet," replied Sutton, the butler. - -"Hooray!" she cried, turning to Mayne, "I win five pounds, and I'll -gamble it away to-night, on weak, no trumpers." - -There happened to be a considerable gathering at the Court that -evening. Besides the guests in the house, not a few neighbours were -present; and the beautiful old mahogany table loaded with fine silver, -and softly shaded candelabra, surrounded by smart and well-favoured -young people, looked very gay indeed. The racing party, who had -scrambled into their clothes, gradually dropped in between soup, and -the second entrée, and heartlessly announced that "the others had -evidently lost their way!" It certainly looked like it, for as time -advanced, no one appeared to fill the two vacant places;--and vacant -places, make a gap, and spoil the symmetry of a dinner table, much as a -missing front tooth, mars a pretty face! - -"They certainly ought to be here by _this_ time," remarked Mrs. De -Wolfe, consulting her wristlet watch, "it's just half-past nine." - -"Perhaps the car has broken down?" suggested Major Horne, "and they are -walking home!" - -"A fairly long walk," said Billy Miller, "and a hatefully lonely road." - -"Oh! Dudley won't mind _that_," said Josie, in an intimate aside. - -It had been a lively and festive meal, the guests were all in high good -humour. Dessert had been disposed of, and the ladies were awaiting -Mrs. De Wolfe's "eye," when Sutton, the butler, entered with unusual -solemnity, and bending his head, made some grave announcement in the -immediate vicinity of her left ear. - -"Nonsense!" she exclaimed in a startled tone, "nonsense!" - -"What is it?" demanded Mayne, and his voice sounded masterful, and -imperious. - -"Sutton tells me, that the car has come back, and that it is -_empty_!"--Meanwhile Sutton stood by, with a face as expressionless as -a dinner plate! - -"Empty!" echoed Mrs. Horne; "what does he mean?--where are Nancy, and -Sir Dudley?" - -Sutton cleared his voice twice, and with an overwhelming importance -suitable to the occasion, said: "When the footman ran down to open the -door just now, there was no one inside the car--nothing but the dust -knee cover, and Miss Travers' feather boa." - -After a deadly silence, Mrs. De Wolfe pulled herself together, rose and -said, as she looked round, "Of course we shall find some ridiculous -explanation; meanwhile, let us adjourn,--I will interview Saxton -myself." - -Whilst the ladies in the drawing-room were whispering, and wondering, -and the men in the dining-room were "lighting up" and passing round the -port, Mrs. De Wolfe entered the library, there to await her chauffeur. -She was accompanied by Roger, and was not a little astonished, when -Captain Mayne joined them. He made no excuse whatever, and looked -serious, and unlike his usual cheery self. After a short delay, Saxton -was ushered in,--a middle-aged, clean-shaven man,--of few words. - -"Pray explain, Saxton, where you left Miss Travers, and Sir Dudley?" -said his mistress. - -"That's more than I can say, ma'am," and there was a moment's silence. - -"Well, say _something_!" urged Mayne impatiently (thrusting a spoon -into what was not his porridge). - -"All I can say, is, that I never laid an eye on either, from the time -we left the race stand--till now." - -"Where did you stop?" asked Mayne; promptly forestalling Mrs. De -Wolfe's anxious questions. - -"At a little old farm by the road, to get water for the engine. I ran -round to the pump and wasn't away two minutes--later on we had a fairly -long wait, maybe a quarter of an hour, at Harraby railway crossing." - -"And you never happened to look back into the car?" suggested Roger De -Wolfe. - -"No, I never does,--I want all my eyes the other way." - -"Very true, all right, go on." - -"Well I was just staggered, when Fox opened the door of the car, and -turned to me, and said, 'Why didn't you go round to the garage? there's -no one inside'--and that's all _I_ know!" - -"Very well, Saxton, that will do," said his mistress, "go now and get -your supper," and with a military salute, Saxton departed. - -"It is the strangest, most extraordinary affair," declared Mrs. De -Wolfe. "I expect Nancy has done something wild, and giddy, and we shall -have her arriving to-night, in the musty old station fly, full of her -adventure, and apologies. I'm not really alarmed,--only puzzled. Well!" -rising as she spoke, "I must return to the ladies; you two, have not -had your smoke. Don't forget that we are playing Bridge,--and want to -make up four tables." - -Bridge proved to be unusually engrossing, and it was only when the -players happened to be Dummy, that their thoughts wandered to the -missing couple. Mayne was not among the card party, he seemed restless, -and unsettled, and wandered into the big hall, where he concealed -himself in one of the largest arm chairs, behind a newspaper. By twelve -o'clock, the last lady guests had retired,--early hours were the rule -at the Court. - -And just about this time, a sinister whisper began to creep up from -the lower regions; it reached Mrs. De Wolfe, as she was taking off -her pearls. In spite of her attitude, the old lady was painfully -anxious. "Thank God," she said to herself, "there was no fear of an -accident,--the car and Saxton had come home intact; but where were -Nancy and Dudley? Surely they must know the misery their absence was -causing." - -Turning to Haynes, her confidential treasure, she said, "Is it not -extraordinary about Miss Travers? Although I have said nothing -downstairs, I am very uneasy, and half inclined to telephone to the -police station. I don't think there's much use in my going to bed, for -I shall certainly not sleep. Why, Haynes, what's the matter, your face -is all blotches,--you've been crying! Don't be foolish, don't you -know, that half the troubles in the world, are those that have never -happened." - -"But this _has_ happened, ma'am," rejoined the maid with a sniff. -"Martin tells me, that Antonio got a wire from his master about eight -o'clock telling him where to bring his own car; and to pack his -clothes, and get Miss Travers' warm coat, and a few things in a suit -case. He said they were going off to Paris together." - -The old lady gave a sharp exclamation, then suddenly sat down. "You -must be out of your mind!" she cried. - -"Martin wouldn't give him a stitch," continued Haynes triumphantly, -"not as much as a pocket-handkerchief; she said she didn't believe a -word he said--and I know myself, that I've caught him out in awful -lies! However, he went and helped himself to a coat out of the -hall--one of _yours_, I think--took most of Sir Dudley's luggage, -and went off with the car about ten o'clock: all the men saw him--! -Here, wait a second, and I'll get a drop of brandy; keep up, my dear -lady, and don't faint if you can help it, and Mrs. De Wolfe did keep -up,--although she looked like death. - -"I'm too old for these shocks, Haynes," she muttered, after a long -silence, "I thought I was hardened! I suppose so far, this story is -only known downstairs." - -"That's all, ma'am; and I needn't tell you, that not one of the -servants would breathe it." - -The tale was nevertheless stealing through the house. Mrs. Speyde heard -it from her maid; and was at first rudely incredulous. After taking two -or three turns up and down the room, she said, "Wait a moment, I'll not -undress yet--I've forgotten something downstairs." - -"Can't I fetch it, ma'am?" - -"No!" waving her back, "I know where it is myself!" - -She went softly out along the corridor, and stood looking over the -balustrade into the great lounge. Mayne was the only individual -below--the other men were assembled in the smoking-room--suddenly he -glanced up, and beheld Josie in her flame-coloured garment, drifting -down the stairs. She paused half-way, and beckoned to him. - -"Derek, I've something to tell you," she whispered, as she halted -on the lowest step. Glancing round, she leant forward, and said: -"Something _dreadful_ has happened!--_Dudley and Nancy have run away to -Paris!_" - -Mayne stood very still--he might have been a stone. - -"His own car, and chauffeur have gone to meet them with their -luggage--what a terrible blow for the old lady!" - -What a terrible blow for Mayne! This was the second time that Nancy -had, so to speak, made him to pass through fire. How false, how -treacherous, was that young, and innocent face! - -As Mayne remained speechless, Josie continued: "So still waters run -deep--not that Nancy was ever very _still_. Although he is my own -cousin, I always knew, that Dudley was a bad lot; a regular rotter! but -as for the girl, I must confess I'm surprised.--Aren't you?" - -"I am," he assented, in a strange dry voice, "surprised in one way, but -not in another. It's not the _first_ time, that Miss Travers has run -away." - -Josie opened her great black eyes, to their widest extent. - -"And _you_ knew all about it--so that is the secret between you!" but -Mayne made no reply, and to her great astonishment, walked across the -hall, snatched his cap from a peg, opened the great door, and went out. - -At this moment, the sound of loud and jovial voices approaching, -warned her, that the smoking-room party were about to disperse, so she -turned about, ran lightly up the stairs, and disappeared into her own -apartment. As for Mayne, he went round into the stable-yard, where men -were still hanging about: one of the neighbours had not yet taken his -departure; he noticed a group of two or three grooms, and a couple of -white-capped women in close conference,--they looked like a gang of -conspirators. The doors of the great garage had not been closed, and as -the moon made everything as bright as day, he saw, that Sir Dudley's -big Mercédès had vanished! - -As she had prognosticated, Mrs. De Wolfe never slept that night. She -looked a wrinkled old wreck, when Haynes brought her her early tea; -nevertheless this Spartan matron, insisted upon getting up and having -herself dressed as usual. In spite of Haynes' expostulations, she -declared, "I'll go down to breakfast, if it costs me my life! The -people upstairs know nothing: so far no one knows the truth, except -the servants, and I feel sure that they will keep this terrible matter -to themselves. All my guests will have departed by twelve o'clock, and -then I shall take to my bed. You may call it a chill, or whatever you -like, but I depend upon you, to allow _no one_ to come near me." - -The old lady's voice was unusually weak: her hands, as she put on her -rings, trembled alarmingly. At last she was ready, and just as she -was about to leave her room, a familiar figure came flying along the -passage, with outstretched hands. - -"Nancy!" - -"Here I am at last!" she gasped out, "and so dreadfully, dreadfully, -sorry, to have tortured you--darling Auntie," embracing her as she -spoke. - -"Where have you been?" said the trembling old lady, endeavouring to -thrust her away. - -"Let me come into your room, and tell you all about it." Taking her -forcibly by the arm, she added, "Do sit down,--you are shaking all -over!" - -Mrs. De Wolfe made no reply, but signalled for her to speak. - -"I spent last night in a cottage near Lofty.--You've heard about the -car having left us behind. This morning, I got up at four o'clock, and -walked over the wet fields, to a little station, and caught a milk -train; I gave the guard five shillings,--and he dropped me at Haygate. -Then I got the old fly,--and here I am!" - -"And Dudley,--what has become of Dudley?" - -"Haynes," said Nancy, suddenly turning towards her, "would you mind -asking Martin to get my bath ready,--I do feel such a grub!" - -Yes, for the first time in her life, Nancy appeared positively -draggled: her hat was battered, her muslin race-gown torn and soiled, -her smart shoes were covered with mud,--whilst her face looked worn, -and almost haggard. - -As soon as Haynes had departed, she sat down on the sofa by Mrs. -De Wolfe, and taking her hand, she said, "Auntie, Sir Dudley has -shown himself in his true colours, at last. He is a horrible, -false, evil-minded wretch--yes, he _is_," then very rapidly she -told how she could not resist the temptation to inspect the old -chest, of the departure of the motor, and the wire dispatched to -recall Saxton--sometimes speaking breathlessly, sometimes speaking -deliberately, always with a great agitation, Nancy related the story -of her experience in Mrs. Bode's front parlour;--to all of which her -companion listened with an expression of incredulous horror. - -When at last Nancy ceased to speak, she said: "Oh, to think of Dudley: -Dudley, whom I've almost thought of as a son,--_what_ a traitor! If -anyone but you, had told me this--I would not have believed it. I must -confess, this adventure of yours, has been a terrible revelation, -another illusion destroyed. I have lost a life-long belief. Well, what -you and I, have now to do, is to conceal this escapade. I shall go -down, and announce your return. What cock and a bull story am I to tell -them, Nancy?" - -She rose as she spoke, and confronted her young friend,--looking -terribly old, and shaken. - -"Tell them?" repeated Nancy, "let me think! Tell them, that Sir Dudley -and I were left behind,--thanks to Saxton's mistake, and that I was -obliged to remain at the cottage for the night; but that Sir Dudley -made his way to the nearest station, and went up to London. Do you -think that will do?" - -"It may pass! but what about his sending for his own car?" - -"I don't suppose that will come out till later." - -"No! Of course the servants will talk,--but their masters and -mistresses who are leaving me to-day are bound to believe _my_ version -of the adventure,--the least they can do after a week's hospitality!" - -"Then I shall hurry off and have my bath, and dress," said Nancy, "and -come down as soon as possible, and show myself. It will be rather a -strain, all things considered, for just at present, I should like to go -away, and have a really good comfortable cry." - - - - - CHAPTER XXXVI - - "TO HIM WHO WAITS----" - - -Mrs. Bode's motley collection of good old "bits" of glass and china, -odds and ends of quaint rubbish--samplers, beads, monster shells, -mouldy books of great age, and Mrs. Bode's funny talk, had kept -Nancy well amused, and occupied for nearly an hour, and then her -hostess insisted on providing a meal, tea, home-made bread, fresh -butter, russet apples, and cold bacon. With considerable pomp this -simple repast, borne on a huge black tray,--was carried to the -front sitting-room, or parlour, and there laid out upon a fine gate -table,--flanked by cottage Chippendale chairs. From the deep narrow -window, overlooking the road, Nancy leant out, and beckoned gaily to -Sir Dudley,--who all this time had been pacing to and fro, smoking -endless cigarettes. - -As Nancy poured out tea, and he took a place opposite, she wondered if -by any chance, Mrs. Bode would take them for husband and wife? Mrs. -Bode, having as she considered, "done her manners," and pressed jam, -bacon, and apples, in turn upon Sir Dudley, with an excuse about a sick -calf, left them to their own devices. Sir Dudley appeared unusually -silent and restless, he refused tea, but munched an apple, and then got -up and began to pace about the long low room. His manner was that of a -man, whose nerves were on edge. - -"I can't think what is keeping the car," remarked Nancy, for the third -time; "surely that boy took the wire," and she, too, rose, and returned -to her post in the narrow deep-set window, through which the moonlight -streamed into the room, making everything as clear as day. - -"It is five minutes past ten by my watch." - -"I expect your watch is fast," said Sir Dudley, as he joined her. - -"Did you ever behold a more glorious night? _Dio mio!_ What a night for -lovers!" he murmured, as he confronted her in the narrow space. - -Nancy felt a little uncomfortable; a vague sensation of apprehension -came to her. "I think--I hear the car now," she announced, but her -voice had an uncertain sound. - -"It's just like old times, to have you all to _myself_--even for an -hour or two," continued her companion--ignoring her remark--"I'm in no -hurry." - -"But _I_ am," she declared with a nervous laugh. - -"Everything comes to him who waits! I have waited nearly a year: and -now, Nancy darling--" here Sir Dudley suddenly put his arm round her -waist, "I've got you at _last_!" - -For a moment she was too paralysed to move; then as she felt his grip -tightening, with a tremendous effort, she wrenched herself away, and -backed against the shutter, breathless, and gasping. - -"What do you mean?" she stammered. "How dare you?" - -"A man dares anything, when he loves a woman--as for what I _mean_, -I'll soon explain,--it's all I ask," he answered in a husky voice, now -seizing both her wrists in a vice-like grip, and devouring her with -his burning eyes. "Nancy, my love, I've adored you, from the moment -we first met; but Auntie Wolfe's presence, and your own strange cold -temperament,--held me in a state of frozen bondage. At first, I swear -to you, I strove hard to strangle, and hide my feelings,--because -Auntie Wolfe, my mother's friend, _believes_ in me; but it was useless. -After all, _why_ should I struggle against my good angel? and you are -cold and undemonstrative, as an angel should be--nevertheless, you _do_ -care for me." - -"No, no, no," protested Nancy breathlessly.--"Never--never--in the way -you mean--I think you must be mad! Let go my hands." - -"But yes, yes, yes," he reiterated. "To what other fellow, have you -ever shown such preference? With me, you are always ready to sing, -or dance, or sketch, or walk. I have watched like a lynx,--for I am -as jealous as the devil,--and you have favoured _none_! As for Tony -Hillside and Lord Lanark, bah!! You and I have tastes in common, we -shall spend our lives together; we will go to Greece, to the Far East, -to Japan,--and I will be your humble, and devoted slave." - -"_Will_ you release my hands?" she demanded furiously. - -"Presently, darling,--when I have said my say! Listen. Auntie Wolfe -will forgive me in time; my wife will divorce me,--it will be merely a -question of money." - -Nancy endeavoured to interrupt, but it was useless; she was overpowered -by a fiery torrent of words, and an emotion, ten times stronger than -her own. - -"Sometimes you drove me mad," he went on, "I felt inclined to kill you, -and myself,--now fate has helped me!" - -"I thought you were an honourable man," she broke in, "so this delay -about the car deserting us, was all planned." - -"No! I swear to you--I'll take my oath it was not," relinquishing her -hands at last; "for once, good fortune has befriended me, and thrown -me a priceless chance. I should like to pension that silly ass of a -chauffeur; for thanks to _him_, you are irretrievably compromised! -Yes!" in reply to Nancy's gesture of recoil, "all the world will know, -that you and I, have spent the night here together. As Miss Travers, -you can never show your face in society; but later, as Lady Villars, -you will be welcomed with open arms. The wire I sent, was to my man -Antonio, telling him to bring my car and luggage here; I expect him -about eleven, possibly earlier; as soon as he arrives, we will start -for Folkestone, catch the early boat, and be in Paris in four hours!" - -"Surely you do not suppose, that I will go with you," demanded Nancy -fiercely. - -"I do not suppose you have any alternative!" he answered impressively. -"Of course I know, that I have startled you, by this unexpected _coup_, -but before long, believe me, Nancy, you will look upon this evening, -as the beginning of a new, and splendid life! _You_ were not borne to -waste your best days with an old woman,--who, much as I love her, saps -one's vitality! You cannot deny that I am handsome, well born, wealthy, -and adore you,--and if your cold little heart cares for anyone,--it -cares for _me_. We were born to be happy together." - -"What crazy talk!" cried Nancy, and she made an effort to pass him. - -"No! no! my own darling; you shall stay here, and listen to me. Such -love as mine, will kindle yours; it will,--it _must_!" - -Nancy's lips trembled--but she made no reply; she glanced at him, then -round the room, with the eyes of a trapped animal; suddenly she made -a dart, and placed the table between them. Oh! if she could but reach -the door; but with folded arms, Sir Dudley stood between her, and that -means of escape,--eyeing her strangely. At last, she said, in a low -faint voice: "You spoke just now, about your wife?" - -He nodded. "Yes! a she-devil; she's had serious money losses lately, -and I shall have no difficulty in bringing her to terms; my _wife_ will -be all right!" - -"And what of my--_husband_?" - -Villars broke into a loud derisive laugh, and said: "My own most -exquisite Nancy, why invent a fairy tale? You and I, will live, a fairy -tale." - -"It is no fairy tale," she answered, "I was married in India before I -came home." - -"Pardon me,--but I do not believe it." - -"I cannot help that,--but it is true! Mrs. Ffinch knows, so does Mrs. -Hicks; she saw me married; it was all legal: my father wished it to -take place,--as he was dying." - -"And who are you?--who is your husband?" - -"Captain Mayne." - -"_Mayne!_ why the joke gets better and better! you don't even speak; -could you not think of someone more probable? What a preposterous -make-up." - -"It's no make-up, on my honour." - -"Does Mrs. De Wolfe know?" he demanded sharply. - -"No!" - -"Nothing will ever make me believe your foolish story; if it were the -truth, _why_ conceal it?" - -"Because"--choking as she spoke--"immediately after the ceremony my -father died; I was crazy with grief, I _hated_ the sight of Captain -Mayne, I wrote, and told him this,--and then I ran away." - -"Ah! so you _can_ run away! Do you hate Captain Mayne now?" - -"No, and if he would ask me, I would go back to him to-morrow." - -Villars became suddenly livid--after a second's pause, a great -perpendicular vein showed itself suddenly in his forehead. - -"You would, would you? Well, from what I've seen of Mayne, he's the -last sort of fellow to give you another chance; and anyhow this -little episode with _me_, will, if you _are_ his wife, choke him off -altogether! Listen to me, Nancy, I implore you; why waste your lovely -youth? Why not come with me: live while you live, and see the far away -beautiful world? And you _shall_ come with me," he concluded doggedly. - -"I'd infinitely rather die!" she answered with decision. - -"Oh, Nancy, when you speak, and look like that,--you break my heart; -for months you have been my hope, and star,--my one thought,--my only -object in life. Surely you _guessed_?" - -"Never! or do you suppose, I should have been so friendly, and sisterly -and trustful? Mrs. De Wolfe said your emotional speeches, and impulsive -acts, were merely your Italian way,--and meant nothing,--she was -mistaken, I see!" - -"She was," now approaching, his eyes flaming in a white face. - -At this moment, the door opened, and Mrs. Bode appeared in a bedgown -and slippers. "There's ten o'clock gone, sir, and I'm thinking, -that you and your lady, will have to stop here to-night. I can make -up a room: it's not very grand, but,----" further information was -interrupted,--by Nancy, who, thrusting the astonished matron violently -aside, dashed out of the door, and ran down the long passage into the -kitchen. The sound of Nancy's high-heeled shoes racing along the flags, -brought Villars to his senses; he had a marvellous power of recovery -and self-control; he had realized from the first, when Nancy recoiled -from him against the shutter, that the game was lost! nevertheless, -some infernal, perverse, impulse, urged him to persist! He might yet -gain her by threats, and alarms--such cases had been known! - -What devil had entered into him, and forced him to snatch his -opportunity; had whispered into his ear,--as he wrote that telegram in -this accursed room? The insanity of half an hour, had cost him the loss -of Nancy, and his old godmother. Naturally the Court would be closed to -him for the rest of his life. Yes! he had pretty well cooked himself. -Well! he must make the most of a bad job! - -Meanwhile, Mrs. Bode was staring at him, with her hands on her hips and -her mouth half open. At last he turned round, and said: "The young lady -and I have had a falling out." - -"Looks a bit like it, sir! and I declare, here's the car come back -for you at last!" for just at this moment, Antonio glided up to the -entrance. Strange to say, neither the man nor motor were the same--this -vehicle was a big grey open car, and there was luggage, and a lady's -fur-lined coat, which the chauffeur brought in, and handed to Mrs. Bode -with a ceremonious bow. - -"Will you ask the lady to speak to me?" said Villars, as he pressed a -sovereign into Mrs. Bode's horny palm. - -"Thank you, sir; it's entirely too much,--entirely too much! I'll go -and fetch the young lady," and Mrs. Bode padded off in her roomy felt -slippers. She found Nancy, in the kitchen,--looking strangely white, -and shaken. - -"The car has come, miss," she announced cheerfully, "and here's your -fur coat. The gentleman will be thankful, if he might speak to you?" - -"No, Mrs. Bode, I will never speak to that gentleman again! If he -follows me here I shall run away into the fields, or," looking round, -"anywhere!" - -"Then you ain't going with him in that lovely car, miss?" - -"No, I'm going to stay here to-night, Mrs. Bode; if you can give me a -bed or even a chair, and to-morrow morning _very_ early, I'll get Dan -to show me the way to the station." - -"Oh, all right, miss, I'll give you a bed, and be pleased. At first, I -thought you were man and wife,--specially as he walked about outside, -and left you here by your lone,--but I see you've no ring." - -"The gentleman is nothing to me,--nothing, _worse_ than nothing," cried -Nancy passionately, "we happen to be staying in the same house, that -was all; and the car left us here by mistake." - -Sounds of a brisk booted foot, coming down the long passage; Nancy -looked at Mrs. Bode, who hastily opened a door, and thrust her through. -She found herself at the foot of some queer old stairs, that twisted -round a huge beam or post, and led up to a low loft-like bedroom, -with two windows, flush with the floor. Here was a tester bed, -painted washstand, and a beautiful chest of drawers, and here Nancy, -exhausted, and trembling, sat upon a low straw chair, her eyes riveted -on the grey motor car, immediately beneath them. It seemed to be -several hours,--but was really twenty minutes, before the car, and its -occupants, moved slowly out of sight. - -After a brief interview with her hostess,--who had appeared with a pair -of clean sheets,--Nancy lay down on the tester bed, and in spite of a -lumpy mattress, and an overpowering smell of old feathers, slept, until -a shrill young cock, announced the breaking of another day. - - - - - CHAPTER XXXVII - - NANCY CARRIES IT OFF! - - -There was no trace of tears on Nancy's smiling face, when three -quarters of an hour later, she appeared among the company, looking -particularly fresh, and self-possessed. In answer to eager queries, -she gave a vivid description of the lure of the oak chest, her rustic -hostess, her unique sleeping chamber, and early morning excursion -across meadows steeped in dew. - -"And what about Sir Dudley all this time?" inquired Mrs. Speyde, "you -haven't _murdered_ him by any chance, have you?" - -The reply to this question, came in Mrs. De Wolfe's very deepest voice, -"Dudley Villars made himself scarce, of course; he is a man of the -world and able to cope with awkward incidents. He was leaving to-day -under any circumstances,--and has already sent for his car." - -By degrees the subject subsided, and lapsed; the guests were more or -less engaged in preparations for their departure, there was not much -time, for sustained discussion, and as far as Nancy was concerned, an -exhausting ordeal, was satisfactorily closed. - -Before her numerous friends motored away to the station, or to their -several homes in the neighbourhood, Nancy held a short parley with two. -Firstly, with Mrs. Hicks, who pounced upon her in the hall, and drawing -her into one of the embrasures, said: "My dear child, I've scarcely had -a word with you these two days; and I've just been longing and _aching_ -to hear what you and Mayne said to one another on Thursday evening? I -suppose you know that _I_ sent him!" - -"I suppose I do," rejoined Nancy bluntly. - -"Has anything been settled?" - -"No, not exactly; I believe he went away early this morning." - -"He did," assented Mrs. Hicks, "but he is within reach, and you can -easily put your hand upon him. Always remember, my dear child, that -whenever I can do anything for you, or him, I will. I've had a most -gorgeous time! everyone has been so jolly and friendly, it's almost as -if I was back in India, and I'll never forget this tennis week as long -as ever I live. Now I must go and get my things together, as I see my -train is 12.5, so ta, ta, for the present," and she moved off. - -The broad back of Mrs. Hicks was scarcely out of sight, before she was -superseded by Billy Miller, who was evidently charged with an important -subject. - -"Our car has not arrived yet, Nancy," she began, and taking her arm -she added, "I want you to come out on the lawn with me,--for I've got -something to tell you," and Nancy assenting, the two girls passed -through the wide french window, and strolled down towards the tennis -courts. - -"I should like you to be one of the first to know, that I am engaged -to Major Horne," announced Miss Miller. "We settled it last evening, -out here in the moonlight." - -"Oh, Billy, I'm delighted!" said Nancy. "I always thought it was going -to come off. I think he is charming, and you will have a delightful -mother-in-law,--but what will become of your family?" - -"They will have to look after themselves," was the heartless rejoinder. -"I have given them a splendid start; you see Minna is married, Brenda -is engaged, there is only Baby left,--and she is the flower of the -flock; then you know some of us will always be coming backwards and -forwards. The Pater has taken a house in town,--which will be a sort -of family hotel. Of course, Nancy, I expect you to be one of my -bridesmaids. By the way, my dear, you nearly gave us fits last evening." - -"I'm afraid I did, and I cannot say that _I_ was very happy myself." - -"No; I could see that Mrs. De Wolfe was on tenterhooks, although she -did her best, to pretend that your staying out all night, was a mere -everyday affair! Next to her, amazing to relate, the one who took your -absence most sorely to heart, was a mere acquaintance,--Captain Mayne! -He seemed uncommonly abstracted, and silent, and that was not all,--I -wish it had been; his room happened to be over mine, and I could hear -him walking about the whole night! I would go to sleep and wake up, -and there he was, still doing sentry go! At one time I had an idea -of getting out of bed, and knocking on the ceiling with an umbrella: -perhaps he had toothache?" - -"Perhaps he had," assented Nancy, but in her heart she knew, that it -was not toothache, but dreadful misgivings with regard to herself, that -had made him pace his room! He had warned her more than once against -Sir Dudley; and his suspicions, and dislike, had proved to be only too -well founded. - - * * * * * - -When all the guests had departed, a Sunday calm descended on the Court. -Mrs. Horne and Roger De Wolfe, still remained; the former as a support -and confidante and comfort to her old friend, fatigued by her recent -activities, and greatly shaken by Nancy's adventure,--required someone -of her own age, into whose ear she could pour her troubles. - -The two old ladies wandered about the green lawns, or sat in the shade -together, enjoying what is known, as a "good talk." The chief subject -of Mrs. De Wolfe's discourse, was Dudley Villars; that catastrophe -had dislocated years of happy friendship. "I had hereto always quoted -him, believed in him, and look at what he has done!" Mrs. Horne, -an unusually noble-minded woman, never attempted to recall their -interview, and her warning at Cadenabbia--merely contenting herself -with saying, "I never liked Sir Dudley, or trusted him, my dear; but I -thought that perhaps, as you were so fond of him, there must be good in -him, which _I_ could not discover." - -Whilst these two friends enjoyed one another's society, Roger De Wolfe -went round the farms, and coverts, with bailiff and keepers, more as -agent, for his cousin, than with the eye of a man inspecting his future -possessions! He was, as Mrs. De Wolfe had said, a good, single-minded, -stupid fellow,--forty years of age, and still unmarried. Even his -best friends were bound to admit that Roger was a bore;--a silent -bore,--which is one of the most trying description. The type that sits, -and sticks, scarcely speaking,--obviously waiting to be entertained; -absorbing ideas, like a great sponge. - -Nancy liked Roger; at least he was restful; and when his two chief -topics were exhausted,--prize retrievers, and carpentering--she -suffered him to, so to speak, "stew in his own juice." They played -croquet, and the girls from the Rectory came up and made a set at -tennis; but as a rule Nancy spent a good deal of time with herself; -lounging in a hammock, dipping into a novel, or sitting on the rustic -seat, at the end of the long turf walk. The two old ladies went -motoring of an afternoon, and Mrs. De Wolfe expressed her intention of -calling on Mrs. Bode and thanking her in person. - -"I daresay you will like to come too, Nancy," she said. - -"On the contrary, I don't think I could endure to see that house again; -no I really couldn't face it! I have already written to Mrs. Bode and -sent her a present, and if she offers you a blue bowl, please say that -I have changed my mind,--but you need not add, that I do not wish for -anything to remind me of her abode." - -The day following her visit to Mrs. Bode, Mrs. De Wolfe declared, that -she must go and look up Richard Mayne. "I fancy he is feeling rather -lonely, now that his nephew has departed, and I'll ask him over on -a little visit. I must confess, I was greatly affronted with Derek: -rushing out of the house before breakfast,--just as if it had been an -hotel; it would have served him right, if I had sent a stiff bill after -him! However, I had a nice note from him,--a note of apology, telling -me, that he had been unable to wait to see me that morning, as urgent -business summoned him to London, and he hoped that I would forgive -him? I expect he will be down again, before long, for the partridge -shooting, and then I shall give him a piece of my mind, for although I -like the boy, I don't hold with these casual manners." - -Nancy did not accompany the two ladies, she preferred to take the dogs -out, and as she was crossing the hall, Sutton approached her with a -solemn face, bearing a note on the salver, and said, "I am very sorry, -Miss Travers, but this note was given to me for you just a week ago. -It happened at an awkward time, before dinner, the night of that -big party. I put it inside the wine book, in my pantry, and forgot -all about it until now; such an oversight has never happened to me -before; but I hope you will excuse me, miss, knowing what a lot I had -on my mind, and so many things to see to. I trust the note is of no -consequence,--I see it was written in the house." - -Yes--there on the flap of the envelope was "Newenham Court." - -"Thank you, Sutton," said Nancy, "I expect it is all right," then -turning over the note, she was startled to find that it was addressed -to her in Mayne's handwriting. She tore it open, and read: - - Thursday evening. - - MY DEAR NANCY, - - It was very unfortunate, that our conversation this afternoon was - interrupted, I should much like to have a _talk_. May I find you - in the little book room immediately after dinner? I shall be there - anyhow, about nine o'clock. - - Yours always, - D. MAYNE. - -This was dreadful; not only had she failed to keep the rendezvous, -but she had been absent the whole of the following night; and had not -arrived home, until after his departure. Naturally, to him, the whole -affair must present the blackest aspect. What would she do? what -could she do? She felt almost distraught, as she wandered out into the -garden, and walked up and down the long turf track, in much the same -frame of mind, as that, which had kept Mayne afoot for a whole night. - -She remembered the evening of the tournament--how he had never come -near her, but, how she had caught his eyes watching her gravely, as -she and Sir Dudley sang duets. She would write to him immediately, -and give him a full account of her hateful adventure in Mrs. Bode's -cottage, and she would ask him to arrange for them to have an immediate -meeting. Her present position, was insupportable, the secret altogether -too heavy a burden. She was not playing the game, in keeping such a -page of her past from Mrs. De Wolfe, nor was it honourable to pass -herself off, as a spinster, among the young men of her acquaintance. -If Mayne had not returned home,--and at least if they had not come -across one another,--matters might have remained in abeyance for years; -but now that she knew him, and time had softened a far away tragedy, -she realized that she loved him; yes, to herself, there was no use in -thrusting away, or trying to evade the truth. - -The question was, did he love her? Perhaps! probably! Yes, a girl has -an intuition in these things; of course there was the money; that was -still a rock of offence; but many men had married women with fortunes, -and the marriages had not been unhappy!--Quite the contrary, by all -accounts; and she could point out to him, that when they were married, -_he_ had been the rich partner, and she as poor as a church mouse. -Partridge shooting would begin shortly, she would probably see him -in a few days--meanwhile she would _write_. She sat for a long time -mentally composing her letter. At last, she heard the motor return, and -presently she rose to meet the two old ladies, who were coming towards -her across the lawn. - -"Well!" she exclaimed, "how did you find Mr. Mayne?" - -"Oh, my dear," replied Mrs. De Wolfe, throwing up her hands, "I never -saw him in such low spirits,--we really couldn't help feeling very -sorry for him,--what _do_ you think? Derek Mayne has gone back to -India,--he left for Marseilles yesterday morning." - -"Gone back to India," repeated Nancy, "but why? I heard he had got an -extension of leave." - -"Yes, but there is some trouble on the frontier, they say, and Derek -is high up among the captains of his regiment, and I have always heard -a very keen soldier; Mrs. Horne and I have put our heads together, and -come to the conclusion that there's something more in his departure, -than meets the eye.--Perhaps we shall all know some day? Well, anyway, -Nancy, the news does not affect _you_, for somehow, you and Derek were -never particularly friendly." - -To this, Nancy made no answer, and if her old friend had not been -engaged in returning the caresses of three dogs, she might have noticed -that her young friend looked strangely pale. - - - - - CHAPTER XXXVIII - - THE INDIAN MAIL - - -When Nancy found herself in her own room, she locked the door, and -sat down to face this unexpected situation,--this new trouble. She -was well aware of the reason of Derek's abrupt departure, but surely -it was impossible for him to believe that she had run away with Sir -Dudley? he must have heard from his uncle, that she was still at the -Court. However, it was evident, that he had received a bad impression -of her character, and would have nothing further to say to her! She -immediately determined to write to him, and found wonderful comfort in -the conviction, that she could clear herself by pen and paper,--but -unfortunately the letter would have to wait for days before it could -be dispatched. This important epistle she wrote, re-wrote, corrected, -and copied, over and over again. Sometimes she found that it said too -much, sometimes too little; sometimes it was too bold, sometimes too -formal,--and always too _long_. After many hours of meditation, and -changing her mind, and destroying much note-paper, she completed in -two sheets, an explanation, which she believed would do,--and leave no -disagreeable _arrière pensée_ upon her conscience. - -With considerable diplomacy she obtained the correct address from -Mr. Mayne, motored over to Maynesfort alone, took tea with the old -gentleman, entertained him with lively talk, made a casual inquiry, and -accomplished her errand! On mail day, the momentous dispatch was duly -posted by her own hand. - -The next event in Nancy's existence, was the death of Mrs. Jenkins. A -sudden seizure of apoplexy carried her off in a few hours; her will -proved to be a surprising document, and a bitter disappointment to Mrs. -Taylor. To her dear friend Henrietta Taylor, she only left one hundred -pounds, to Miss Dolling, fifty pounds,--for the purchase of a mourning -ring,--the Pom and a substantial sum were bequeathed to the butler; -three hundred a year and her wardrobe, to Baker, her faithful maid; -her pearls and her portrait to her dear niece, Nancy Travers, as well -as the Travers silver and books; all the remainder--including lease of -house and investments--were to his great surprise bequeathed to the -nephew of her late husband, Samuel Jenkins. - -After all, it was but just and fair, that the Jenkins money, should -return to the Jenkins purse? But why should poor Mrs. Taylor be cut -off with a hundred pounds?--alas! the sad truth must be disclosed. -Although Mrs. Taylor enjoyed prolonged midnight conferences, it was -Baker, the maid, who had the very _last_ word, when putting her lady to -bed. Baker cordially hated Mrs. Taylor,--naturally it was painful for -her to witness the valuable presents, and beautiful dresses, that the -weak-minded old lady bestowed upon her toady.--By gradual degrees, the -crafty woman dropped some poisonous truths into her mistress's ear; she -even inferred, that Mrs. Taylor was a double-faced friend; who said one -thing to her lady's face, and another behind her back! - -"I know for a fact, that she told Mrs. Seymour as how your memory was -going," boldly announced Baker,--with her mistress's little rat tail of -back hair, tightly clenched in her hand, "and that you really wanted -someone like herself, to look after you, and your affairs." - -Although Mrs. Jenkins had angrily repudiated this information, and -commanded the maid to hold her tongue, nevertheless the dart rankled, -and went far to counteract Mrs. Taylor's honeyed speeches, and -audacious flatteries. To these, Mrs. Jenkins listened greedily,--but -she was a sly old thing, and took notes. One or two of her visitors, -had ventured hints respecting Mrs. Taylor and her pretensions,--for her -arrogance had become insupportable. It had been whispered, that she had -already decided what she intended to do with the house in Queen's Gate, -when it was her property; and had more than once rashly intimated, -that her dear friend Mrs. Jenkins was "breaking up!" - -Nancy, who was much surprised at the news of her legacy, stored the -picture, sent the pearls to her bank, and went into slight mourning. -In these days, she felt nearly as dull and silent as Roger De -Wolfe,--although she made a valiant effort to appear otherwise: she -was counting the very hours, until she could receive an answer to her -letter,--but perhaps Derek would not reply? - -Her hopes went up and down, like a see-saw--at one moment she was -sanguine--the next visited by despair. Undoubtedly it was an agreeable -distraction to Nancy, and a pleasure to her other friends, when Mrs. -Ffinch appeared upon the scene. She looked thin, and weather-beaten, -but as active, and energetic as ever. At first she came down to stay -with the Hillsides,--and later to the Court,--a much more comfortable -abode. She had frequently visited there as a girl, and now made herself -thoroughly at home. Naturally she saw a great change in her protégée; -here was another Nancy from the flapper of Fairplains,--and the two, -had long and intimate talks: having many topics, and one secret in -common. - -"And so you had Mayne at home," said Finchie. - -With this abrupt remark, she had opened their first _tête-à-tête_. -"Yes. By accident you fell not 'among thieves,' but, among his friends! -That marriage was a terrible disaster. If I had not happened to be -away,--it would never have taken place. Just see, what a fix you -are in; a girl of your appearance and position, could marry almost -anybody,--including my poor Tony. Dear me, Nancy, how much I should -like you for a niece! Perhaps it could come off after all; for I -suppose you are aware, that Captain Mayne could get rid of you if he -liked.--Desertion! but what an _esclandre_! You would have to go back -to Fairplains, and bury yourself temporarily among the coffee bushes! -You and he have met I know,--and met often, I believe he was actually -staying here!" - -Nancy nodded. - -"And there it ended for the present? I understand he has returned to -India. I do not know what he and Josie have been up to,--at least I can -guess what _she_ has been doing,--flirting for all she is worth,--but -she has her knife into Derek Mayne up to the hilt; and for what -reason?--the rest is silence! Ah! here is the postman coming up the -back avenue, let us go down and waylay him, for this is Indian Mail -day, and I am expecting the usual screed from my old man." - -As the ladies waited whilst the postman sorted out "the Court letters," -Nancy's heart almost stood still; would there be one for her, or not? -There _was_! She turned her back upon her two companions, and opened it -with trembling fingers. - - Hawari Camp, - Darwaza Hills, - N. W. Frontier. - - MY DEAR NANCY, - - I was _very_ glad to receive your letter, which makes everything - clear. Fate was dead against that interview, perhaps I may get - home when this bit of a scrap is over; we are expecting to have a - brush with the tribes at once. If I do manage leave, I shall return - immediately, and hope our meeting may come off,--the third time is - the charm. I write in desperate haste to catch the Dâk just going - down, as I want you to have this answer without delay. My hands - are so frozen, I can scarcely hold my pen; will write again next - week. - - Yours always, - D. M. - -This letter filled Nancy with a glow of happiness and a sense of joy -and relief, such as she had not known for many a long day. She hurried -up the avenue clutching her treasure, half afraid that Finchie would -overtake and cross-examine her, but looking back she noticed, that -Finchie, with a large bundle of correspondence in her hand, was still -gossiping with the postman. - - - - - CHAPTER XXXIX - - THE AVOWAL - - -It was mid October and the woods round Newenham were not now dressed -in green, but clothed in various shades of brown, dark red, and deep -orange; in the grounds, one no longer heard the continual rattle of -the mowing machine; the gardeners were busy with barrows and brooms, -sweeping up, and removing, the endless showers of withered leaves. -Within, the atmosphere was gay and sunny, here were various congenial -guests: Roger De Wolfe and Major Horne had come for the pheasant -shooting. Mrs. Horne, Billy and Baby Miller were of the party, and Mrs. -Hicks who had rushed down on a flying visit, before she sailed for -India, also Mrs. Ffinch, and Mr. Mayne. - -The solitary old gentleman, had seemed so dull and depressed, that Mrs. -De Wolfe insisted that he should join her circle--even for a few days. -To Nancy she said, "I've no doubt that the gossips will think that -we are going to be married at _last_; they settled a match years and -years ago, and how my boys used to laugh and chaff me! You will look -after him, Nancy, the old man is devoted to you, and you are devoted -to him, and I must confess, I admire the courage with which you take -him on at Bridge; a most hopeless and expensive partner, who doubles -and re-doubles, even if he holds a Yarborough; the old gambling spirit -re-appearing in a milder form!" - -It was five o'clock in the afternoon, the party were collected round -the tea table in the hall,--a table laden with rare old silver, a fine -Crown Derby tea-service, hot scones--savoury sandwiches and cakes too -numerous to mention--and Mrs. Ffinch,--who never lost sight of an -opportunity,--had cleverly manœuvred dull Roger De Wolfe into a seat -next to lively Baby Miller. In the opinion of this astute matron, -it was full time that Roger was married; he was forty, his hair was -thinning on the top, his figure was thickening; in short, she was -resolved upon this match. Glancing over the girls in the neighbourhood, -she found none so suitable to be the future mistress of the Court, as -pretty, red-haired "Baby." - -She could see that Roger was already dazzled and fascinated, and it -would be a most desirable alliance. Roger was plain, silent, and -worthy; Baby was a charming chatterbox, and a nice, good, clever girl; -some day, she would and should be the châtelaine of this dear old -house, and take charge of the precious family treasures, when their -present owner had passed away. There was a loud hum of talking, and -laughing, Major Horne and Roger De Wolfe were discussing their day's -sport, Mr. Mayne and Mrs. De Wolfe were still wrangling about their -last rubber, when Sutton entered, salver in hand. - -"Your letters have just come, sir," he said, approaching Mr. Mayne. -"Are there any orders for Graham?" - -The old gentleman took up his letters, glanced at them indifferently, -and answered, "No, not to-day," turning to Mrs. De Wolfe he added: - -"Only a bill from my saddler, and a letter from Julia Torquilstone. -I wonder what the deuce _she_ is writing about?" he added -peevishly--"sure to _want_ something," and he laid it unopened by his -plate. "I was hoping to hear from my boy. I know the mail came in two -days ago." - -Nancy too had hoped for a letter; but her hopes had been doomed to -disappointment. - -As soon as Mr. Mayne had disposed of Mrs. De Wolfe's argument, -and a second cup of tea, he opened the neglected epistle from his -sister-in-law,--and read it with a frowning face. - -"Here's bad news!" he exclaimed, in a tone which silenced every other -voice. "Julia has had a line from the War Office, to say that Derek has -been dangerously wounded in some action with the hill tribes. Oh, these -little wars, and what they cost us!" - -"Are there any particulars?" inquired Mrs. De Wolfe. - -"There you are!" handing her an official telegram. "I suppose," and his -voice was husky, "he will leave his bones out there, like his father." - -When Mrs. De Wolfe had glanced over the slip of paper, she was not a -little surprised, to see Nancy rise from her place, and stretch out a -trembling hand. - -"May I see it too?" she asked. The question was so clear and so -unexpected, that every eye was riveted on the pale girl, whose gaze -was bent on the telegram,--that is to say every eye, save those of Mr. -Mayne, who was apparently engulfed in his own trouble. - -"I suppose he will die out there alone!" he groaned. "Of course Julia -won't stir, I'm too old,--and there's nobody else to go." - -"_I_ will go," announced Nancy, steadying herself by a tall Charles the -First chair, and looking round the assembled company, with a white and -rigid face. "I must tell you all at last, and _now_,--that--that--" and -her voice sank till it became a whisper--but an audible whisper, "I am -his _wife_!" - -"Nancy!" ejaculated Mrs. De Wolfe, in a key of contrasting depth. - -"It's true," she continued with livid lips, "we were married by -my father's deathbed, two and a half years ago, and----" here she -completely broke down. - -"Nancy, child, don't, _I'll_ tell it," volunteered Mrs. Ffinch, -stretching out her arm. "No, she is not raving, as you might naturally -suppose," she added, glancing at her companions. "I know all about -it,--and Mrs. Hicks was present,--she saw them married!" - -"Yes," corroborated Mrs. Hicks, "I did, and it's about the only secret -I've ever been able to keep!" - -"But why a secret?" demanded Mrs. De Wolfe, who had recovered her -composure. - -"We were married to relieve my father's mind," replied Nancy, who had -also reclaimed her self-possession. "I was alone in the world, and very -poor, and he was dreadfully unhappy about me; Captain Mayne and I did -not care for one another--in those days! Please!" looking round the -circle--"_do_ forgive me for deceiving you,--but we agreed to keep the -marriage secret, and to be strangers always, and I must confess, that -_I_ behaved very badly. I was distracted, and I ran away; but I was so -young, and so heart-broken! It is different now; I shall leave with -Mrs. Hicks on Friday, and pray that I may be in time.--I am going to -send off a cable," and looking like the wraith of Nancy Travers, she -left them. - -The old mahogany door closed upon a long expressive silence, presently -to be broken by Mrs. Ffinch, who gladly took up her parable. Here was -_her_ hour! what an opening for her natural eloquence, and love of -dominating a situation! As she unravelled Nancy's past, she had the -supreme happiness of knowing, that her listeners actually hung upon -her words,--especially old Mr. Mayne, with his head advanced, and hand -behind his left and best, ear! - -In a few short and telling sentences, she described Nancy's adoration -of her father, their ideally happy life,--the terrible scene with the -panther, Mayne's bad shot, his rescue by Travers, and how when Travers -was dying, Mayne had come forward, and undertaken the charge of Nancy. -How immediately after the funeral Nancy, in a condition of frenzied -grief, had written a letter of farewell and repudiation to Mayne,--and -taken refuge with her old nurse at Coimbatore. - -"Aye, it really was a terrible letter," chimed in Mrs. Hicks, "I was -there, when he read it, and he looked knocked all of a 'eap.--First he -showed it to Teddy Dawson, and then to me. She said as how she blamed -him, and how she hated him,--and so he let her go,--what else could he -do?"--throwing herself back in her chair, and folding her arms with an -air of finality--then added as an afterthought, "but he made her a -good allowance!" - -"Which she never touched," supplemented Mrs. Ffinch, "the money has -lain all this time in Grindlay's Bank; they held no communication -with one another, each went their own way: he as a bachelor, she, as -an unmarried girl, until they came to London,--where Fate threw them -together, in spite of themselves." - -"So all the time, there _was_ a girl in the background!--a girl to -whom he sent money," said Mrs. Horne,--who had a wonderful faculty for -remembering--but not disseminating--scraps of gossip. "There's never -smoke without a fire, and to think, that all the time it should be -_Nancy_." - -"It was a case of a foolish, hasty, wedding," declared Mrs. Ffinch -judicially; "had I been at home, I would never have allowed it to take -place. Unfortunately I happened to be absent for a few days, and in -those few days, occurred Nancy's marriage, and her father's death. I -think that Derek Mayne,--though he meant well,--behaved like a lunatic!" - -"No," corrected his uncle, thumping on the table, "he behaved like a -man of honour! I was always fond of Derek, and now I'm _proud_ of him! -I'll just go and see what that girl is doing?" and taking his stick, he -hobbled out of the room. - -When Nancy found Mrs. De Wolfe alone, she said, "Hundreds of times -I've wanted to speak, and to tell you,--but I dared not; for I felt, -that if I opened my lips, the secret would spread; if I told one, I -might tell another; and when I saw Derek, I realized that we were to be -strangers,--in fact he said so in the plainest terms. There was nothing -for it but silence,--at first." - -"And now?" inquired her friend, with grave significance. - -"Now,--only for my money,--I believe he would have made it up! Money, -or no money, I'm going out on Friday; I have already secured my -berth, by telephone,--but oh, dear, dear Auntie, supposing I am _too -late_!"--and as she sank on her knees and buried her face on the old -lady's lap,--her sobs were heartbreaking. - -"Don't meet trouble half way, my child," said Mrs. De Wolfe, "though -crying will relieve your poor heart. It is only the _young_, the lucky -young, who can weep. Remember that the Maynes are as tough as leather; -why, look at that old man downstairs; four months ago, a horse -rolled upon him, and broke his leg, and three ribs; to-day, he was -out shooting pheasants! Oh, Nancy my dear, how often I've wished that -you, and Derek would take to one another,--and only to think, that you -were married all the time! Well, in my long, and not uneventful life, -you have given me the most stunning surprise, I have ever experienced! -_Now_ I can understand why Derek never came to the house, and went out -of his way to avoid me." - -"Everything is my fault. Auntie Wolfe," sobbed Nancy, "I'm afraid you -will never care for me any more, nor trust me: everyone will think me -so secretive, and deceitful,--and so I _was_!" - -"It will be all right, my dear, if only Derek recovers, and you make -him happy,--as I believe you can. By and by you will both come home, -and settle among us,--and your strange story will be forgotten." - - * * * * * - -As soon as Captain Mayne was convalescent, he and his wife travelled -down to Fairplains, where they were the guests of Mr. and Mrs. Dawson; -and in that familiar and unchanged verandah, he once more occupied -his favourite shabby chair, and surveyed from his place, the dim blue -plains. All the neighbours and employees flocked to the bungalow, -to hail and welcome Nancy. Francis received his "Little Missy" with -rapturous joy, and a few trickling tears.--As for Togo, that faithful -heart was always hers. - -When Miss Travers, at a few hours' notice, had hurried out to India, to -marry, and nurse, Captain Mayne; it was generally believed that this -was but the romantic sequel, to a long and mysterious engagement. - -Not more than two or three hundred people are in possession of the -truth! - - - THE END - - * * * * * - - By the same Author - - _Each in Cloth_ - - A RASH EXPERIMENT - - WHAT SHE OVERHEARD - - IN OLD MADRAS - - THE SERPENT'S TOOTH - - * * * * * - - - _Printed in Great Britain by Ebenezer Baylis & Son, Worcester._ - -*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK GIVEN IN MARRIAGE *** - -Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions will -be renamed. - -Creating the works from print editions not protected by U.S. copyright -law means that no one owns a United States copyright in these works, -so the Foundation (and you!) can copy and distribute it in the -United States without permission and without paying copyright -royalties. 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You may copy it, give it away or re-use it under the terms -of the Project Gutenberg License included with this eBook or online -at <a href="https://www.gutenberg.org">www.gutenberg.org</a>. If you -are not located in the United States, you will have to check the laws of the -country where you are located before using this eBook. -</div> - -<p style='display:block; margin-top:1em; margin-bottom:1em; margin-left:2em; text-indent:-2em'>Title: Given in Marriage</p> -<p style='display:block; margin-top:1em; margin-bottom:0; margin-left:2em; text-indent:-2em'>Author: Bithia Mary Croker</p> -<p style='display:block; text-indent:0; margin:1em 0'>Release Date: October 12, 2022 [eBook #69142]</p> -<p style='display:block; text-indent:0; margin:1em 0'>Language: English</p> - <p style='display:block; margin-top:1em; margin-bottom:0; margin-left:2em; text-indent:-2em; text-align:left'>Produced by: MWS, Mary Meehan and the Online Distributed Proofreading Team at https://www.pgdp.net (This file was produced from images generously made available by The Internet Archive/American Libraries.)</p> -<div style='margin-top:2em; margin-bottom:4em'>*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK GIVEN IN MARRIAGE ***</div> - -<div class="titlepage"> - -<h1>GIVEN IN MARRIAGE</h1> - -<h2>By B. M. Croker</h2> - -<p><i>Author of "In Old Madras," "Lismoyle," etc.</i></p> - -<p><i>LONDON: HUTCHINSON & CO.<br /> -PATERNOSTER ROW—E.C.</i></p> - -</div> - -<hr class="chap" /> - -<h2>CHAPTER I</h2> - -<h3>A STRANGER IN THE LAND</h3> - - -<p>"I say, did you hear old pensioner Jones, jawing away to Haji Aboo -about the gold reefs, that lie round Tappah?"</p> - -<p>An eager young planter put this question to his companion, as together -they—or rather their horses—toiled up a sharp ascent.</p> - -<p>"Oh yes, <i>I</i> heard him," grunted the other with a shrug.</p> - -<p>"And what did you think, Ted?"</p> - -<p>"That the old boy was drunk as usual," was the uncompromising -rejoinder. "Filthy Bazaar liquor; some of these days he'll snuff-out!"</p> - -<p>"Well, of course it's Shandy, but I've a notion, there is something in -his story. No smoke without fire! Eh? He swore that one or two of the -estates were chock full of gold."</p> - -<p>"Oh, there's gold enough in coffee, if you know how to work it," -declared Ted Dawson, an enthusiast at his trade.</p> - -<p>"Yes, but why not the other sort as well? Imagine two heavy crops—the -berry, and the nugget!" urged his partner. "I've heard that lame -Maistrey—whose ancestors lived here when these hills were opened -up—say, that the first planters were granted immense tracts for a mere -song, and that one or two of them like Pattador and Fairplains—run -right down to the low country, where there are old workings, smothered -in jungle."</p> - -<p>"Bosh!" ejaculated Ted, "I've heard these fool stories, but there's -nothing in them;" and he ruthlessly turned from this ever-dazzling -subject, to an unromantic discussion on bone manure and sulphate of -ammonia.</p> - -<p>The two planters, accompanied by a pack of dogs, were riding up the -steep, short cut leading to their joint estate, which was situated on -the western slopes of a hill range, in Southern India. Edward Dawson, -the elder of the pair, was a big, loosely put-together man, of five and -thirty (he looked considerably younger, thanks to his round, beardless -face), with almost lint-white locks, and candid blue eyes. His clothes -were decent—which is all that could be said for them; a cotton shirt, -wide open at the neck, canvas breeches, leather belt, and a battered -topee, completed his kit.</p> - -<p>Dawson was the son of a retired Indian general, who had wisely invested -part of his savings in coffee, when estates were cheap; and had thereby -provided for an heir of simple and bucolic tastes—a good, honest -fellow, who loved the land of his birth, was keen on his job, and spoke -Tamil and Canarese, with effective fluency.</p> - -<p>Nicholas Byng, his companion, cousin, and partner, was a slight, -young man, with neat features, quick, bright eyes, and a remarkably -clear idea of the importance of appearances—especially of his own -appearance. He wore a well-made drill suit and polo boots, and rode a -long-tailed, useful-looking, bay thoroughbred, bearing the discouraging -name of "Mad Molly."</p> - -<p>Byng, the darling of a widowed mother, had been intended for the -Army, but was "spun" so repeatedly, that his failure appeared to -have become a confirmed habit. The death of his parent put an end to -further efforts, and a certain high-handed uncle then deported him to -the Chicknabullnay Estate. Here, for the first time in his career, -he put his unaccustomed shoulder to the wheel, and, after a year's -apprenticeship, became partner and sub-manager. He liked the life.</p> - -<p>Teddy, for all his unconventional, "jungly" ways, was a good sort; -a strong man, who kept the reins in his ugly big fists, and was -master. His partner enjoyed ample liberty and holidays—oh, it was -not <i>all</i> "coffee"—and Nicky was able to disport himself in Madras, -and fashionable—alas! rather remote—hill stations; he got a bit of -shooting, was making money, and, on the whole, the billet suited him -down to the ground.</p> - -<p>The couple had been to the foot of the ghât on business connected with -the transport of their crops; every yard they now travelled carried -them further and further from dense, tropical forests, sweltering -heat, and swampy valleys, and nearer to the quiet beauty of the grassy -uplands.</p> - -<p>Turning a sharp corner, they debouched into a little glade where three -tracks met, and here, with a slight shock of surprise, discovered that -prominent figure in early Victorian fiction, known as "a solitary -horseman."</p> - -<p>Dawson, who was still expounding on the scandalous price of bone -manure, broke off his sentence with:</p> - -<p>"I say,—who's this?"</p> - -<p>"Hello, good afternoon," said the stranger, raising a smart topee, "I -heard your voices, and waited. I don't know these parts, and I'm afraid -I've lost my bearings."</p> - -<p>The "lost one" was a well set-up, self-possessed individual, mounted on -a fine waler cob, and accompanied by a wiry, and more than half-naked -syce.</p> - -<p>"I expect we will soon put you all right," said Byng,—ever the -speaking partner—"Where are you bound for?"</p> - -<p>"A place called Fairplains; the estate of one James Fletcher."</p> - -<p>"Then you are just five miles out; you overshot the mark by that native -village among the plantain trees, near the bridge. Why didn't you stick -to the road?"</p> - -<p>"Well, I suppose because I'm an adventurous idiot," was the modest -reply, "and I was told that a bridle-path cut off seven miles."</p> - -<p>"So it does,—but it depends upon <i>which</i> bridle-path. This one has put -you on, a good ten."</p> - -<p>"I say, what a confounded nuisance!" exclaimed the wanderer, looking -down at his blown, and sweating, steed.</p> - -<p>"Our place is barely a mile from here," announced Dawson, speaking -for the first time. "Come on with us, have a drink, give the gee a -feed, and a rub-down, and we will send a coolie to put you on the way -to Fairplains—unless you'll stay the night?" he added, with true -planter's hospitality.</p> - -<p>"Thanks awfully, but I'd better shove on. I'll be glad to stop an hour -at your diggings, and give the cob a rest—he's pretty well done."</p> - -<p>"Not the usual 'Hirling,' I see," remarked Byng.</p> - -<p>"No, I brought him from Cananore; he is awfully soft—that climate is -only fit for horned cattle!"</p> - -<p>"Yes, beastly wet," agreed Byng, his bright eyes taking in the -well-knit figure and military bearing of the cob's master. "Your -regiment quartered there?"</p> - -<p>"It is—my name is Mayne—Derek Mayne—an uncle of mine is a pal of -Fletcher's, he invited me up for six weeks' shooting—and naturally I -came like a shot!"</p> - -<p>"But Fletcher has gone home—went off ten days ago!"</p> - -<p>"What do you say?" cried Mayne, reining up his horse.</p> - -<p>"It's a fact; he has been rather seedy, and ran down to see a doctor in -Madras, who ordered him to start then and there for London—it was a -case for an immediate operation."</p> - -<p>"Poor chap! I'm most awfully sorry. Well," after a reflective pause, -"I'm in a pretty big hole. I had a line from Fletcher three weeks -ago, and I've got my leave all right, and have written to announce my -arrival, but the shoot is off! I suppose I must make for one of these -hill stations. I can't tell you how I've been looking forward to this -shikar trip—my first."</p> - -<p>"Oh, I expect you will be all right," said Dawson reassuringly; -"Fletcher is bound to have left instructions; he is a most reliable old -boy. Let me introduce myself. My name is Dawson, and this," waving a -huge paw, "is my cousin, Nicholas Byng. We run a coffee estate known as -Chicknabullnay,—but called by our neighbours 'The Corner.' He is the -ornamental, and I'm the working partner."</p> - -<p>"Come, I like that!" broke in his cousin: "I live with my nose to the -grindstone. I've been on duty since six o'clock this morning; down at -Burliar, making a bundobast for our crop."</p> - -<p>"We would give you some shooting," continued Dawson, "but nothing like -what you'd get at Fairplains—that has always had a Shikari owner, who -knows the best grounds, and beats in the low country, as well as he -knows his A B C, and can call out any amount of good, plucky beaters."</p> - -<p>"Well, I sincerely hope it <i>will</i> be all right, as you believe, and -that the manager has been warned by Fletcher; otherwise, it's no great -matter, as I am a complete stranger to them both. I say, what a mixed -multitude!" pointing to the pack.</p> - -<p>"Yes, all sorts and conditions," replied Byng, "and a real good -specimen of an average planter's pack, only ours are absolutely -healthy—no red mange."</p> - -<p>"But what variety!" said Mayne, turning in his saddle to survey them. -"A fox hound, three beagles, a deer-hound, half a dozen fox terriers, -several—any other sort—a bull terrier, and what was once a poodle."</p> - -<p>"Yes, and the poodle has the brains of the lot. You see how it is; -people going home are glad to leave their dogs in a good climate. Most -of ours, have a history! The deer-hound was given to me by a girl, the -poodle came from a French priest at Pondicherry, the fox-terrier with -the black head, belonged to a poor chap who died. They get on together -fairly well, all being fond of sport, and they have a rattling good -time."</p> - -<p>"Lucky dogs!"</p> - -<p>"Yes," put in Dawson, "hunting, drawing sholahs for sambur, and pig, -and at home, there are rats and bandicoots. Two dog-boys feed and brush -them—and a few live indoors."</p> - -<p>"A <i>few</i>!" echoed Byng, "make it a dozen! The poodle and -fox-terriers,—like the poor,—are always with us, and I've found a -couple of beagles in my bed before now, and"—as an old retriever came -slowly towards the party, "here comes a pensioner to welcome us. This -is Chicknabullnay."</p> - -<p>For the last quarter of a mile, the journey had been on a well-metalled -cart road, and through a crop of dense green coffee bushes; now, a -sudden curve brought the back of a long, low bungalow with adjoining -gardens, stores, and stables, into sight. As the trio rode down a steep -slope, dog-boys, and syces, hurried forward to claim their respective -charges.</p> - -<p>The guest dismounted rather stiffly, and was escorted by Dawson -straight through the house, and into the front verandah. Here the view -that lay before them was startlingly unexpected; low hills to right -and left had, as it were, been cleft by some volcanic convulsion, and -disclosed a far-away, and exquisite, blue panorama of the plains.</p> - -<p>"Oh I say!" Mayne exclaimed involuntarily.</p> - -<p>"Hits you bang in the eye, doesn't it?" was Dawson's complacent -rejoinder. "Most planters manœuvre for a fine outlook—the one up at -Fairplains is the same—but Fletcher swears, ten times better. Now come -along inside, and have a wash."</p> - -<hr class="chap" /> - -<h2>CHAPTER II</h2> - -<h3>"THE CORNER"</h3> - - -<p>For a bachelor abode "The Corner" proved unexpectedly comfortable, and -well-furnished.</p> - -<p>"Wouldn't you swear a couple of old maids lived here?" said Dawson, as -he ushered his guest into the dining-room. "This is all Byng's doing," -pointing to a precisely-laid table,—where four little hill-ferns, in -four little white china wheelbarrows, supported a central ornament. "He -found things pretty rough and tumbled, when he joined me three years -ago."</p> - -<p>"You may say so!" corroborated his cousin, now entering sleek-headed -and refreshed, unfolding a smart silk handkerchief as he spoke. "Why, -there was hardly a sheet or a towel—nothing but rags—only one -tumbler, one breakfast-cup, and two plates, both cracked!"</p> - -<p>"Oh come, draw it mild!" protested the other. "Anyhow, the Missy—I -call him the 'Missy'—gives picnics and tiffins, we have an ice -machine, a piano, and lace-edged tea-cloths! Now sit down, I'm sure you -are starving."</p> - -<p>A black-bearded butler brought in a substantial cold hump, salad, roast -potatoes, bread, butter, cheese, and a huge cake; whilst his satellite, -an attendant chokra, supplied each of the company with a long and -well-iced peg.</p> - -<p>"Not much of the old maid in this quarter!" remarked Mayne, when he had -swallowed a few mouthfuls, indicating the splendid tiger-skins, and -heads, that surrounded the party. "That bison—I say, what a fellow!" -surveying the trophy with eyes of envious respect.</p> - -<p>"Yes, a good specimen," assented Dawson. "You should see those at -Fairplains. Travers is the finest shot in Southern India. Have you ever -done any big game shooting?"</p> - -<p>"Nothing bigger than a hare! I've always been mad keen on trophies, and -when my uncle wrote about this invitation, I nearly stood on my head. -Supposing Fletcher's manager has received no instructions, and gives me -the boot?"</p> - -<p>"No fear," rejoined Byng emphatically. "Travers is the great shikari in -these hills, a magnificent shot, and absolutely without a nerve in his -body. If you are a keen sportsman—a red-hot enthusiast—he will love -you as a son, or brother."</p> - -<p>"How splendid! What's he like?"</p> - -<p>"I'll tell you all about him, when we adjourn outside. Have one of -these Trichys?"</p> - -<p>With a Trichy between his fingers, Mayne followed his host into the -verandah, and there, subsided into a deep and seductive chair. His eyes -ranged over the unfamiliar outlook, of rich green coffee bushes, heavy -forestry, and vague, blue plains, as he meditatively rolled the cheroot.</p> - -<p>"It's rather a painful story about Laurence Travers," began Byng, -blowing a cloud.</p> - -<p>"Then—er—perhaps you'd rather——"</p> - -<p>"Oh, it's common property—no scandal. Travers' father lived to -spend his last penny, and left nothing but debt for the family. So -Laurence, instead of going into the Army, came out here when he was -two and twenty; he had a little capital, and started coffee planting -at Fairplains. After a good season, he went home on three months' -leave,—and got caught, coming out!"</p> - -<p>"Caught!" repeated Mayne.</p> - -<p>"Fell head over ears in love with a fellow passenger; a young governess -bound for a situation in Melbourne. She had not a penny, needless to -say. They were married, and lived very happily, in spite of the wrath -of his relations,—whose chief asset was family pride. Mrs. Travers did -up the house, started a garden, rode about all over the place, and made -heaps of friends; she was Irish, very pretty, lively, hospitable, and -an immense favourite. Those were fat years for coffee too—and Travers -prospered."</p> - -<p>"Oh, get on!—don't be so long-winded!" growled Dawson, who was nursing -a fox terrier, whilst jealous dogs of various sorts surrounded his -chair.</p> - -<p>"Well," resumed Byng, "after a good while, there was the usual baby—a -girl. Travers was in the seventh heaven, but Mrs. Travers somehow began -to go down hill, though she would not give in; other people saw it, and -urged her to take a change, or to go home. She stuck it out, that she -was as strong as a horse. However, when the child was about a year old, -Travers, coming in late one afternoon, discovered her sitting in the -verandah,—as he supposed asleep,—with the baby on her lap. When it -turned out that she was stone dead, he went nearly raving mad; in those -days the place was a bit isolated, neighbours were far off; not like it -is now,—the Ffinches and Hicks within a couple of miles. Strange to -say, the servants had the sense to put away his razors and fire-arms, -and to send for the nearest doctor. He gave Travers a sedative, and -found that Mrs. Travers had died of long-standing heart disease. She -was buried in her garden.</p> - -<p>"After this blow, Travers appeared to have no further interest in -anything in the wide world,—bar the kid. She had a superior English -nurse, and the most wonderful frocks, sashes, and dolls, that had ever -been seen on these hills. Travers could not bear her out of his sight, -and brought her about with him everywhere,—even shooting. When Nancy -was six, she got typhoid—our crystal clear streams are deceptive—and -she nearly went out, and had to be sent home. Her father took this -separation terribly to heart; after her departure, they say, he used -to sit for hours, in a sort of dream, just smoking, and staring into -space! Some people thought he was going dotty; and it sounds a funny -thing to say, but in a way, the child was his <i>ruin</i>! An irresistible -magnet, that drew him to England, and often at the most critical -seasons. There, he had no occupation; here, his coffee estate was going -to pot. Other planters warned him, but in spite or all they could say, -he would leave as manager, one, Doria, a cunning half-caste,—such an -oily persuasive rascal,—to take on his job.</p> - -<p>"There had been bad seasons, and losses,—common to the whole -community, and this fellow urged Travers to raise a mortgage, and -Travers, who wanted ready money, and was dying to be off home, agreed, -and departed. Then Doria, left to his own devices, set about to rob -and plunder in the most shameless way; he pocketed a whole season's -profits, also large arrears of debts—and cleared out, leaving no -address."</p> - -<p>"I believe he is in South America," interposed Dawson. "Go on, -Nicky—you'd make your fortune in the Bazaar!"</p> - -<p>"I think," resumed Byng, "that it must be nearly five years since -Travers returned, and found himself completely smashed. He made a -desperate effort to pull things together, but it was too late; the -coffee was neglected, and blighted, the bungalow full of mildew and -cobwebs,—and the mortgagees were calling for their capital. I must -say, they behaved infernally badly; would not give Travers a dog's -chance; foreclosed, and sold up Fairplains. Fletcher bought it, lock, -stock and barrel, and kept on Travers, as his manager. He has a -bungalow, and four hundred rupees a month—and is worth <i>double</i>. When -Fletcher is away—he is boss, and lives in the big house."</p> - -<p>"Where he was once lord, and master!" exclaimed Mayne. "What -frightfully hard luck,—I wonder he stayed on."</p> - -<p>"Hobson's choice! He'd got to live, and to pay for the kiddie at home. -Now she is grown up, and out—and——"</p> - -<p>"Do you mean to tell me," interrupted Mayne, pushing back his chair, -"that there is a girl at Fairplains?"</p> - -<p>"I am thankful to say there <i>is</i>! She is the life and soul of the -neighbourhood. We should all be uncommonly dull without our Nancy—she -is full of energy, and true <i>joie-de-vivre</i>—does everything bang off -on the spur of the moment, and is the apple of her father's eye."</p> - -<p>"And mine," supplemented Dawson, "apple of both eyes."</p> - -<p>"Yes, she put new life into Travers," resumed Byng, "he is like another -man; goes all over the place to picnics, and tennis, and takes an -interest in his personal appearance—not like my cousin here," with a -contemptuous gesture of his thumb.</p> - -<p>"Oh, go on!" grunted Dawson, "<i>I</i> haven't thirty-eight ties hanging on -a string—I've no red silk socks—and no looks! Travers, though he is -nearly fifty, is far and away the handsomest fellow in these parts; -he's like a king! I suppose it's the old blue blood—and one of the -best, into the bargain."</p> - -<p>Mayne listened with ill-suppressed impatience to this long eulogy. -What were the handsome planter, and the apple of his eye, to him? His -programme must be entirely revised.</p> - -<p>"But I say," he broke in at last. "It's one thing to go shooting with -a bachelor, my uncle's old pal—but another pair of shoes, to quarter -myself on his manager, who has a grown-up daughter—even if he wanted -to go for a week's shikar, he could not leave her at home alone."</p> - -<p>"Oh, she goes with him," was Dawson's staggering announcement, "she's -an A1 shot."</p> - -<p>"Then <i>that</i> settles it," declared Mayne, rising to his feet. "Two is -company! Only my baggage is on its way to Fletcher's, I'd ask for a -bed here, and start down the ghât to-morrow. Anyway, I won't stay at -Fairplains more than a couple of days."</p> - -<p>"Oh, <i>won't</i> you?" said Byng, with ironical emphasis, "I advise you -to 'wait and see.' Nancy won't be the fly in the ointment—she's -a rattling good little housekeeper, and will make you uncommonly -comfortable. She does not always go out shooting; sometimes Mrs. Ffinch -comes over, and keeps her company—they are tremendous pals."</p> - -<p>"Yes, if you are really anxious to see first-class sport," broke in -Dawson, "don't let a scruple, or a little girl, stand in your way. Take -my advice, and make no arrangements, till you have seen Fairplains for -yourself."</p> - -<p>"Well, I daresay you are right," said Mayne, after a weighty silence. -"It does seem rather rotten, to have taken this long journey, and be, -so to speak, headed off by a petticoat. I—might be sorry afterwards."</p> - -<p>"You are bound to be," rejoined Dawson with conviction.</p> - -<p>"All right then, I'll push on. Have the Travers any neighbours besides -yourselves, and this Mrs. What-you-may-call her?"</p> - -<p>"Oh, yes, the Ffinches at Clouds Rest, are within two miles—there are -only the two of them. He, given over body and soul, to money-making, -and coffee—otherwise just Mrs. Ffinch's husband! She, is our local -dynamo, and keeps everything going;—extraordinarily clever woman, -absolutely wasted out here;—would make a great Prime Minister, or -Secretary for Foreign Affairs. Then we have the Hicks'. Dr. and Mrs. -and two girls; he was doctor on board a liner—and picked up a lady -passenger."</p> - -<p>"More of a passenger, than a lady," corrected Dawson, "but a rare good -sort."</p> - -<p>"And the girls ditto," continued his cousin. "These are our nearest—if -not dearest. You'll soon get to know everyone, and everyone will know -you,—and give you lots of sport."</p> - -<p>"Well then, I think I'll make a start, if you'll send for the cob, and -syce; it's seven o'clock."</p> - -<p>"It's a fine starlight night, and no hurry; only the Travers' are early -birds," said Dawson, when Mayne's cob was led up. "There's a coolie to -guide you. I expect we shall see you pretty often—mind you look in, -when you can."</p> - -<p>"Upon my word, I don't know how to thank you! You have been most -awfully good in taking me in like this," said Mayne. "Perhaps Fletcher -has not written; and you may have me back on your hands to-morrow -morning," and with a laugh, and a salute, he sprang into the saddle, -and cantered away, closely pursued by syce, and coolie.</p> - -<p>"A real cheery chap!" remarked Dawson, as he looked after the parting -guest; "no 'haw-haw' nonsense about him. I like his eyes,—and he -laughs like a boy."</p> - -<p>"Boy! He must be seven or eight and twenty," said Byng, "may be more. -Money, I should say. I noticed his watch, and he paid a smart sum for -that cob. He's not a bad-looking chap—I hope he won't turn the child's -head?"</p> - -<p>"Not likely!" rejoined Dawson, "Nancy's head is too well screwed on, -and she has no room for anyone in her thoughts, but her Daddy—as for -that fellow, his one and only object in life, is to bag a tiger!"</p> - -<p>Having pronounced this dictum, Dawson flung himself into a long cane -chair, and picked up <i>The Planter's Gazette</i>.</p> - -<hr class="chap" /> - -<h2>CHAPTER III</h2> - -<h3>THE GIRL AT FAIRPLAINS</h3> - - -<p>Proceeding through the coffee estate at a sort of dog's trot, Mayne -was sorely exercised in his mind; being filled with serious misgivings -concerning the planter's daughter; probably a pert, autocratic little -minx, after the manner of the usual "apples of eyes," who would no -doubt prove—as far as he was concerned—a real spoil-sport! For days -he had indulged in glowing visions of a rough outdoor life; of camps, -long marches, exciting stalks, heavy spoils, and freedom!</p> - -<p>Could a manager leave his estate? and if he did, and brought his -encumbrance, how hateful and irksome to have this girl tacked on to -the party! Well, he could soon see how the land lay, and if the -outlook was too discouraging, would hurry off and spend his leave in -Ceylon—where he might,—with any luck—get an elephant or two.</p> - -<p>It was a lovely starlight evening, and after the hot and clammy -atmosphere of Cananore, the thin cool hill air, with its tang of -eucalyptus, was as refreshing as a draught of spring water. Up various -steep coolie paths, bordered by clumps of aromatic blue gum, and ragged -bushes, and round many sharp corners, Mayne followed his light-footed -leader. Presently they came upon a good metalled road, running through -coffee, and above them, on a raised plateau, stood Fairplains, with -lighted windows, and lanterns flickering like fire-flies about the -premises.</p> - -<p>As Mayne approached, the barking of many dogs was deafening, and he -halted just below the bungalow. When he did so, the majestic figure -of an elderly butler, appeared at the top of a flight of stone steps, -brandishing a lantern in one hand, and salaaming profoundly with the -other.</p> - -<p>"Is the sahib at home?" inquired Mayne.</p> - -<p>"Yes, saar, please to come up, saar?"</p> - -<p>Thus invited, the visitor dismounted, and ascended to the verandah; and -as he did so, caught sight, within a room, of a girl reading. By the -light of a shaded lamp, he invisioned a wisp-like figure in white, and -a bent head crowned with a mass of hair.</p> - -<p>"Francis!" called out a clear young voice, "why are those dogs making -such a noise? Is it the panther again?"</p> - -<p>"No, missy," replied the servant reassuringly, "no panther -to-night—only one gentleman."</p> - -<p>Missy lifted her head, and beheld Mayne standing in the doorway. As she -rose to her feet, he discovered that the word "little" did not fit Miss -Nancy Travers, who was rather tall than otherwise.</p> - -<p>"I hope you will pardon this late and audacious intrusion," he began, -removing his topee as he spoke. "My name is Mayne—Mr. Fletcher, my -uncle's old friend, invited me up here for some shooting. I only -discovered a couple of hours ago, that Mr. Fletcher has gone home, and -had no time to make other arrangements—but——"</p> - -<p>"It is quite all right," she declared with serene composure, "this is -Mr. Fletcher's bungalow, and naturally you are welcome. Francis will -get you some supper at once."</p> - -<p>"I suppose you had no letter—you did not expect me?" he inquired, -advancing to the table.</p> - -<p>"No, but that makes no difference. We are accustomed to stray -visitors, and always glad to see them. Planters, doctors, chaplains, -and missionaries, drop in from time to time. Won't you sit down?" -indicating a chair; a half-finished game of chess was on the table -between them. "Father and I were playing, when he was sent for to see -to a sick coolie. He will be back in a few minutes."</p> - -<p>"Did I hear you say something about a panther just now?" asked Mayne -abruptly.</p> - -<p>"Yes, they come down from the rocks above us, and prowl round after -dark, and carry off dogs if they can; last week one of them took the -dhoby's best goat!"</p> - -<p>"Then the shooting about here must be good?"</p> - -<p>"I'm afraid father has not left much in the immediate neighbourhood; -for real sport, you have to go down the ghât—I mean for bison and -tiger—hereabouts, there are only sambur, and wild pig."</p> - -<p>"And panthers?" supplemented Mayne.</p> - -<p>"Yes, too many of them! Such treacherous, cruel, brutes, and very bold. -More dangerous in their way than tiger—Father says the tiger is a -gentleman—the panther a bounder."</p> - -<p>"I wish I could get a shot at one."</p> - -<p>"No doubt you will have a chance. Did you come far to-day?"</p> - -<p>"From the railway. I arrived from Cananore last night, and stopped at -the Dâk bungalow. My guns and traps are following me, but I really -don't like to billet myself on you, and your father."</p> - -<p>Since he had been in the company of Miss Travers, Mayne had been -anxiously endeavouring to distinguish her appearance; but a heavily -shaded lamp left, beyond the mere outline, everything to conjecture; -and, save an impression that she had a small face, large eyes, and a -thin brown hand,—the lady's looks, remained an unknown quantity.</p> - -<p>At this moment, Travers, who had been prescribing for a stomach-ache -in the coolie lines, reappeared, unaware of the arrival of a visitor. -As he stepped into the verandah, he heard talking—a strange voice, -vibrant and attractive,—the voice of a gentleman; and there, sitting -in his own pet chair, was someone whose sleek dark head, and white -collar, appeared above its cushions.</p> - -<p>He entered promptly, received a hasty and apologetic explanation, and -became at once the cordial and hospitable host. The dark-haired young -fellow, was evidently an Army man, with pleasant easy manners.</p> - -<p>A description of his journey was presently cut short by the -announcement that "Supper was ready on the table," and as Travers -hurried his guest into the dining-room, the young lady disappeared.</p> - -<p>Supper was laid out with an unexpected display of fine damask, cut -glass, and shining silver, and the new-comer did ample justice to an -excellent meal of which the <i>pièce de résistance</i> was cold hump. There -was a sameness in the planters' homes, not only confined to food; here -again were dead trophies, and not a few live dogs; but dogs, trophies, -and surroundings, were all on a superior, and more imposing scale, than -that of the <i>ménage</i> at "The Corner."</p> - -<p>Travers, noticing his guest's attention fixed upon a valuable old -sideboard, said:</p> - -<p>"I see you are looking at the Chippendale! This place is no mushroom, -and been established over eighty years. I took it from the executors -of a very old planter, who started it, and collected no end of good -furniture, plate and glass, from auctions and sales—the break-up of -families, who were pioneers in these hills."</p> - -<p>Presently the conversation turned to the subject nearest to the -wayfarer's heart, "shikar." On such a topic, the two were in the -most profound, and, so to speak, deadly sympathy. Mayne listened -enthralled—to an excellent supper—to vivid descriptions of beats and -bags, "near shaves," and glorious triumphs. Afterwards the sportsmen -smoked in the verandah, and exchanged views on a surprising variety of -subjects, from the stars in their courses, to the preserving of skins, -and the imperative use of arsenical soap.</p> - -<p>Later, as Travers escorted his guest to the spare room, he said:</p> - -<p>"I expect we shall be able to show you some fairly good sport."</p> - -<p>"I'm sure of it," responded Mayne, "but by no means so sure, that I -ought to trespass on your good nature. For all <i>you</i> know, I may be an -impudent impostor!"</p> - -<p>"Oh, I'll risk that," replied Travers with a hearty laugh, then as he -turned to withdraw, "Make yourself at home—and sleep well."</p> - -<hr class="tb" /> - -<p>Next morning, the dâk-wallah's brown leather bag carried the English -mail to Fairplains, and among papers and advertisements were two or -three letters for Travers, including one from Mr. Fletcher. He wrote -from a nursing home in London, and gave a belated notice of the -prospective arrival of the nephew of his old friend, Richard Mayne:</p> - -<p>"I don't know the young man personally," he said, "but if he is like -his uncle, he will be all right. Mayne is in the Porcupines on the -West Coast, is mad keen to see some sport, and could not be in better -hands than yours. His father is dead, and his mother has married again. -My friend, a bachelor, is a man of large property, and I fancy your -visitor will be his heir. He has a little money of his own—and they -say, brains. Let him have my guns, and the brown pony, do your best -for him, and don't let him flirt with Nancy. I'm not much better, and -the doctors talk of having another 'go' at me. How did our ancestors -live without these operations? They died, I suppose. Well, we must all -go—sometime——"</p> - -<p>The remainder of the letter was filled up with business directions, -suggestions, and interrogations.</p> - -<hr class="tb" /> - -<p>When Mayne came out of his room in the morning, he sat on the steps, -and greedily devoured the delicious pearly prospect; it was similar to -the one from "The Corner," but finer, and more extensive.</p> - -<p>"Isn't it lovely?" said a clear voice, and looking round he beheld Miss -Travers.</p> - -<p>Seen by the clear and impartial light of day, her appearance was -disappointing; a tall slip of a girl with deeply sunburnt face, in -which was set a pair of wide-open grey eyes; and Mayne was struck by -the intensely youthful expression of these eyes—that now regarded him -curiously; her hair, very thick and wavy, was of a tawny red—almost -the same shade as her complexion; a white linen frock emphasized a -slim, rather boyish figure, and made no attempt to hide a pair of -surpassingly neat ankles. Nancy's age was possibly sixteen, and to sum -up her personality in one word, Mayne's hostess was neither more nor -less, than a happy-looking, well-grown flapper!</p> - -<p>"I never tire of it," she resumed; "if I am bored, or in a bad temper, -I just sit here and stare—and it always soothes me."</p> - -<p>"Are you ever in a bad temper?" inquired Mayne, who had risen, and was -looking up at her.</p> - -<p>"Don't ask <i>me</i>—ask Daddy," she answered with a gay smile, revealing a -set of perfect teeth, "I'm afraid he will say it's—fiery!"</p> - -<p>"May be your hair has something to say to it?"</p> - -<p>"Probably! When I was a small child, it was much worse,—other girls -pretended to warm their hands on my head. It has grown deeper in shade, -and I have hopes, that it may yet be black."</p> - -<p>"It will be white before that."</p> - -<p>"How smart of you!" she exclaimed, seating herself. "How did you sleep?"</p> - -<p>"Like an infant."</p> - -<p>"Really? Sometimes they scream all night! 'An infant crying in the -night,'" she quoted. "And so you lost your way yesterday?"</p> - -<p>"I believe so—and only for two good Samaritans, I might be wandering -still."</p> - -<p>"You met Mr. Dawson, and Mr. Byng?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, they were kind enough to put me up, and to lend me a guide. I -say, what an oddly-matched couple to run in double harness!"</p> - -<p>"They are; but it's so good for them; they counteract each other's -failings, and get on splendidly—the same as people who marry their -opposites."</p> - -<p>"Do they? I see you know all about it!" said Mayne, now sitting down -beside her, and warding off the attentions of a fine bull terrier.</p> - -<p>"Go away, Sammy," commanded his mistress, "I'll talk to <i>you</i> by and -by." Then to Mayne, "Are you trying to be sarcastic?"</p> - -<p>"Perish the thought!"</p> - -<p>"And I <i>do</i> know all about it—within our small circle, every married -person is the exact contrast to their partner. You will soon be able to -judge for yourself—as for Teddy Dawson—we are all christian names up -here——"</p> - -<p>"May I call you by yours?" asked Mayne audaciously.</p> - -<p>"In a few days—perhaps——"</p> - -<p>"Thank you; and you were speaking about Teddy Dawson?"</p> - -<p>"So I was; he is so practical and hard-working, and loves -coffee-planting, but is rather rough and untidy. If you had only seen -'The Corner' before Nicky arrived! The Bungalow was crammed with sacks -of coffee, tins of kerosine, and packs of dogs—scarcely a chair to sit -on. Ah! here is father at last!"</p> - -<p>As Travers dismounted from a shaggy estate pony, and approached, -Mayne realized that he was undeniably handsome; dark, with finely cut -features, and noble bearing; the gallant air, that descends in certain -families, from generation to generation.</p> - -<p>"Too hot for the steps, Nance!" he said, laying his hand on her head, -"and no topee! Away with you into the verandah." But Nancy merely -lifted a slender arm to thrust back a hair-pin. "How are you, Mayne? I -heard all about you this morning."</p> - -<p>"<i>All</i>, sir? That's rather a large order; but I gather that you have -had a letter from Fletcher?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, poor old boy, I'm afraid he is in a bad way. He is anxious you -should have good sport. I believe I can manage a big beat next week, -and I've arranged to draw a small sholah this afternoon." (A sholah is -a deep fold in the hills indicated by trees and undergrowth). "We may -get a jungle sheep, or a pig."</p> - -<p>"Anything will be a novelty to me," declared Mayne.</p> - -<p>"I can lend you Fletcher's rifle, till your own comes up; in fact, he -said you were to use his battery and——"</p> - -<p>"But, father," interrupted the girl, "you have forgotten that this is -tennis day! The Hicks, the Ffinches, and the 'Corner' boys, are coming."</p> - -<p>"Oh, by Jove, yes! but you will be all right without us. You can -tackle more than that, my little Nance." Aside to Mayne, "She manages -everyone."</p> - -<p>"Now you are thinking of Mrs. Ffinch," protested Nancy, "what excuse -could I offer? You know Captain Calvert is still at 'Clouds Rest,' and -with the Hicks, Andrew Meach, and the Pollards, she said we ought to -make up three sets."</p> - -<p>"To-day or to-morrow is all one to me," was Mayne's generous -announcement,—for he was secretly longing to be off within the hour.</p> - -<p>"Oh, well, Mr.—or is it Captain—Mayne?" He nodded. "I will try and -arrange the tennis somehow, and let father carry you off to draw the -'Bandy' sholah."</p> - -<p>The immediate result of such magnanimous permission, was an animated -dispute; each party clamouring to yield to the other; finally it was -decided, that the sportsmen were to remain at home.</p> - -<p>"It will give you an opportunity of meeting some of our neighbours," -said Travers; then turning to his daughter, "Nancy child, five minutes -ago, I asked you to go in out of the sun."</p> - -<p>"Yes, dear, but you know very well that my hair is as thick as a roof -thatch, and my skull is bomb-proof."</p> - -<p>"Ah, I'm afraid this is a day, when you don't feel very good?"</p> - -<p>"Oh, Daddy—please——!"</p> - -<p>"Come along," he interrupted, taking her gently under the arms, raising -her to her feet, and drawing her into the verandah. Then to Mayne—who -had followed them, "When this sun-worshipper was a small, and unruly -mite, she obligingly prepared me for the worst, by announcing, 'Daddy, -I don't feel very good to-day.'"</p> - -<p>"Oh, that story has been told all over the hills since I was two years -old!" protested Miss Nancy. "People are always quoting it. Don't you -think, Captain Mayne, that it is too bad of Daddy to give me away?"</p> - -<p>"Make your mind easy, my dear child, your old Daddy will never give you -away. Now come along into the dining-room, and give us some breakfast, -and let Captain Mayne sample our famous Fairplains coffee."</p> - -<hr class="chap" /> - -<h2>CHAPTER IV</h2> - -<h3>THE COFFEE ESTATE</h3> - - -<p>The Fairplains coffee, fully maintained its high reputation, and the -accompanying food was on the same satisfactory level; fresh cream, -bread and butter, apricot jam, and new-laid eggs, grilled ham and -chicken—what a welcome change, from the sodden West Coast fare, to -which Mayne had been accustomed. Besides the menu, he could not help -being impressed by the deep mutual affection, existing between Travers -and his daughter; how quietly she forestalled all his requirements, -how his dark eyes softened, when they met her glance, and how the pair -laughed, and chaffed, one another with light-hearted enjoyment.</p> - -<p>Mayne cast a thought to the domestic atmosphere of his own home. What -a contrast to this! There, a fashionably youthful woman of fifty, -shrank from the too convincing appearance of a son of seven and twenty, -and her early morning manner was particularly chilly and acidulated. -Breakfast was never a convivial meal.</p> - -<p>Lady Torquilstone, an only child and heiress, among her many suitors, -had, to the disappointment of her parent, accepted handsome Derek -Mayne, a mere officer,—and not even an eldest son! and accompanied him -when he joined his regiment in India. As soon as the glamour of a new -life, and a new world, had worn off, the lady drooped. In India, she -found a dreadful spirit of equality—no nicely partitioned sets, only -the sternest rule of "precedence," in short, from her point of view no -"society" whatever!</p> - -<p>Money failed to give her the prominent position she considered to be -her right, she was merely Mrs. Derek Mayne, a Captain's wife, and one -of the herd! Unfortunately the marriage was not a success; the heiress -was discontented, and irritable, she snubbed and tyrannized over her -good-natured husband,—and spent most of her time in England.</p> - -<p>Captain Mayne died in Jubbulpore of cholera,—when his happy wife -was dancing at a London ball,—and within the least conventional -period, his widow married Lord Torquilstone, an elderly, but well -preserved peer, and hardened man of the world; they shared the same -tastes—particularly racing, and Bridge—and lived for eight months of -the year in a gloomy, but imposing house in Mayfair,—where it required -a combination of three men-servants, to open the hall door.</p> - -<p>Derek Mayne Junior had never been permitted to become "an encumbrance"; -school, Sandhurst, and his Uncle Richard, lifted the weight of child, -boy, and man, from his mother's shrinking shoulders,—and he made only -an occasional and brief appearance at his so-called "Home."</p> - -<p>"I'm afraid you will have lots of spare time on your hands," said -Travers to his guest. "This is our busy season, and I can only get off -for a shoot now and then,—but Nancy will take you on, when I have an -extra full day."</p> - -<p>"What do you call a full day?"</p> - -<p>"Well, when I start at seven, with roll call of the coolies, am out -till twelve; after a rest and tiffin, I go round and see how the -weeding and picking is done? then to the factory to weigh coffee, -afterwards attend to office work, which sometimes carries me on till -eleven o'clock at night."</p> - -<p>"But I don't allow that <i>now</i>," said Nancy with a proprietary gesture.</p> - -<p>"No," agreed Travers, "because this young lady wants a playfellow, and -has no conception of the labour and anxieties, that belong to a coffee -estate. Sometimes a planter will awake, to find what has been compared -to a fall of snow,—the blossom in flower! It is a pretty sight; but -for three days, he lives in a quaking agony for fear of rain—rain -would spell the ruin of the whole crop. To insure a good setting of the -bean or berry, we must have several days of sunshine."</p> - -<p>"I suppose the picking is all done by hand?" said Mayne, who from his -place could observe various black heads bobbing about among the coffee -bushes.</p> - -<p>"Yes, I get my labour from Mysore. I must take you down to the -pulping-house, and let you see some of the process."</p> - -<p>"I gather that coffee-planting is an uncertain business?"</p> - -<p>"You may say so!" replied Travers. "We are liable to leaf disease, -rain, and rot. However, a planter is a sanguine creature, and if he has -a bad season, his cry is 'next year.'"</p> - -<p>"Now Daddy, we won't have any more coffee till <i>after</i> dinner," -announced Nancy authoritatively. "Captain Mayne has not been -introduced to the best dogs. This"—pushing forward a large white bull -terrier,—"is Sam. Uncle Sam, my property, and shadow."</p> - -<p>"I say, what a splendid fellow!" exclaimed Mayne. "Come along and talk -to me, Uncle. I love dogs—have you had him long?"</p> - -<p>"Ever since he was born. Bessie, his mother, was brought from England -as a puppy. She looked after me when I was small, and was so clever and -wise. I am sorry to say she died before I came home,—but her son has -adopted me."</p> - -<p>"Well, Bessie lived to a ripe old age," said Travers; "she must have -been thirteen—an extraordinarily intelligent, almost human creature. -When the poor old lady felt that her end was approaching, she went -round every one of her haunts to bid them farewell—down to 'The -Corner,' up to 'Clouds Rest,' and even to the nearer sholahs and beats. -Day after day she was to be seen hurrying along all by herself—a -strange journey——"</p> - -<p>"You have not talked to Togo yet," interposed Nancy, the irrepressible. -"Father belongs to him, and sleeps in his room. Come here, and show -yourself, my Togo! He is a shy, and eccentric person—nearly always -carries a stone in his mouth—a trick inherited from his retriever -ancestors."</p> - -<p>The animal in question was a yellow and white, curly-haired, -long-legged spaniel, with a jaunty tail carried high over his back, and -a pair of beseeching dark eyes.</p> - -<p>"What do you think of him?"</p> - -<p>After a moment's hesitation Mayne replied:</p> - -<p>"Well, I've no doubt Togo is a good sort—he reminds me of a variety of -dogs I've seen!"</p> - -<p>"Variety—you mean he is a mongrel?"</p> - -<p>"I'd rather not commit myself. Perhaps he is a particular hill breed?"</p> - -<p>"No, but one of the best of our pack," said his owner, "and if he seems -all leg, he is really all heart. Come here, Togo,—'handsome is, that -handsome does,' eh Togo?"</p> - -<p>And Togo went over and laid his head on his master's knee, and turned a -deeply reproachful gaze upon the stranger.</p> - -<p>"I'm going down to the factory, if you'd care to come," said Travers. -"I'll show you the lie of the land, and Nancy can concentrate on her -tea-party."</p> - -<p>Mayne accepted with alacrity, and in a few minutes, the two men, -followed by the two dogs, were to be seen descending the hill.</p> - -<p>"I knew a fellow of your name long ago," announced Travers; "I was one -of the juniors, when he was in the sixth form at Harrow; a remarkably -good-looking chap, Derek Mayne. We small fry worshipped him—he was -Captain of the Eleven."</p> - -<p>"It must have been my father; he was at Harrow, and his name was Derek -Mayne—so is mine."</p> - -<p>"Then in that case," said Travers, halting for a moment, and -confronting his companion, "I am delighted to meet his son; although -I lost sight of him for ages and ages, I remember your father just as -well as if we had met but yesterday; such an active, cheery sort of -chap, with a wonderful influence, and personality. I know he went into -the Army, and died young."</p> - -<p>"Yes, twenty-five years ago out here—cholera. I don't remember him at -all—I wish I could."</p> - -<p>"Once he came and spent a few days at Lambourne, my father's place, and -I felt tremendously flattered, and proud. Everyone was taken with him, -and such a cricketer! Those were the pleasant days before our grand -smash. Are you an only child?"</p> - -<p>"I am."</p> - -<p>"What hard lines for your mother to have six thousand miles between you -and her! <i>I</i> know what that means."</p> - -<p>Mayne made no reply. He had good reason to believe, that distance was -of no account, and his absence, more or less of a welcome relief.</p> - -<p>"Yes, I know exactly how she feels," repeated good, simple-minded -Travers; "when my little girl went away from me to England,—the whole -world seemed changed, and dark."</p> - -<p>His love of Nancy was the keynote of the man.</p> - -<p>"Well, here is what we call a factory—not much like your idea of one, -I'll swear,—and a bit of an eyesore into the bargain."</p> - -<p>The factory was an ugly, solid brick building, with a flat zinc roof, -and vast verandahs; in and out of which, the laden coolies swarmed -like ants in an ant-heap. All seemed working at the highest pitch, and -everything pointed to a big crop; here Travers was the acute, energetic -and authoritative Manager; eyes and ears, hung upon his words, which -happened to be in fluent Canarese.</p> - -<p>At the appointed hour, Mayne,—whose kit had arrived,—presented -himself in the drawing-room at Fairplains; looking very business-like, -in his well-cut white flannels, and tennis shoes. Here host and hostess -were already awaiting their guests.</p> - -<p>The apartment was gloomy and old-fashioned—in spite of Miss Nancy's -obvious attempts to work a change, with gay cushions, white curtains, -and a wealth of flowers; these items entirely failed to overpower the -depressing effect of a double suite of Black Bombay furniture—sofas, -armchairs and tables; all heavily carved, and upholstered in shabby -purple damask,—the original Fairplains furniture, brought from Bombay -at vast expense, fifty years previously.</p> - -<p>The walls were hung with a weird grey paper, covered with a pattern -that recalled urns, and weeping willows; the ceiling was crossed by -great beams, and the yellow keys of an aged piano, seemed to grin -defiance at every innovation! Mrs. Travers and her daughter had been -in turn defeated by the overhanging beams, and funereal furniture, and -so the apartment of the early sixties, remained more or less deserted. -Nancy generally received her friends in the verandah, or the cheerful, -shabby "Den," common to her parent, and herself.</p> - -<p>"Is not this room hideous?" she said, appealing to Mayne. "No one likes -it. I think it's because when people die,—they are laid out here."</p> - -<p>"Nancy!" protested her father, "you don't know what you are talking -about! The fact is," turning to Mayne, "this room was once the glory -of the old lady who first lived at Fairplains, and there was a sort of -understanding that it was not to be transformed,—so here it is, as you -see! We only use it on state occasions."</p> - -<p>"Once in a blue moon," added Nancy. "The servants say it's haunted, -and I believe the old lady comes here still. If any article happens -to be moved, it's put back in its place, the same night—it really -<i>is</i>; flowers die in a few hours, and I always feel as if this was a -brooding, creepy sort of place—I don't like to be here alone after -dark—I feel a sense of something terrifying in that far corner—! Dad, -shall I take Captain Mayne down and show him the tennis ground? We are -proud of <i>that</i>."</p> - -<p>"All right, Nan, I'll do figurehead, and receive the company,—and pass -them on to you. They will be here at any moment."</p> - -<p>The four tennis courts had been, so to speak, scooped out of the hill, -and lay open on one side to a sheer descent, enclosed with stout wire -netting. A flight of steps connected the ground with the broad terrace -in front of the bungalow.</p> - -<p>"It's A1," remarked Mayne, "kunkur courts, I declare!"</p> - -<p>"My mother had it made in the days when Daddy was rich," explained the -girl, "but for years and years it was forgotten,—and overgrown with -grass and brambles."</p> - -<p>"And you restored it?"</p> - -<p>"No indeed, Mr. Fletcher resurrected the poor old tennis ground—wasn't -it good of him?"</p> - -<p>"He plays himself, of course?"</p> - -<p>"Oh no, he is quite old—much older than father. We have lived with -him, since I came out."</p> - -<p>"Were you long at home?"</p> - -<p>"Eleven endless years. Daddy came over four times to see me; only for -that, I believe I'd have died. Here are the Hicks!"—pointing to a -party who were riding up the road in Indian file. "The stout lady on -the white pony is Mrs. Hicks, or ''Icks'—she drops her aitches all -over the place; once someone sent her a sheet of paper covered with -them,—and she took it as a capital joke."</p> - -<p>"Why not?" said Mayne. "After all, why make a fetish of <i>one</i> letter?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, and some people who cling to their aitches, work the poor letter -'I' to death."</p> - -<p>"That's rather sharp, and very true too, Miss Nancy."</p> - -<p>"I believe I am sharp in seeing some things. Mrs. Hicks is blind as a -bat, but immensely good-natured,—and so kind to animals."</p> - -<p>"Do you call her kind to that unfortunate pony? She must weigh fourteen -stone if she weighs an ounce!"</p> - -<p>"Oh, he's a 'Shan,' and well up to weight. Anyhow, she is active—wait -till you see her skipping about the tennis courts! Those two girls are -her daughters, Fanny and Jessie—they keep her in great order."</p> - -<p>"Do they indeed—but why?"</p> - -<p>"Because of her love for bright colours, her giggling, and loud laugh, -and the funny things she <i>will</i> say—before they can stop her!"</p> - -<p>At this moment, the lady in question loomed large upon the top of the -steps, and Nancy ran to meet her. A ruddy, dark-eyed matron, with a -rollicking expression,—wearing a stiff white skirt, comfortable canvas -shoes, and a flowing green sash.</p> - -<p>"Well, Nance!" she called out, "'ow are you? This your -friend?"—indicating Mayne with a nod.</p> - -<p>"Yes; Captain Mayne—Mrs. Hicks."</p> - -<p>Mayne bowed, with slightly exaggerated deference.</p> - -<p>Mrs. Hicks nodded approvingly, and said:</p> - -<p>"These are my two girls, Miss Fanny and Jessie—Captain Mayne," and -she waved her bat towards two trim, lady-like young women. "They -are first-class tennis players," she continued, "and you can't go -wrong,—whichever you choose."</p> - -<p>Mayne had not intended to make a selection, but the matter was taken -out of his hands by Nancy.</p> - -<p>"I'm playing with father; and Mrs. Hicks, I know you like to play with -Andy Meach. Captain Mayne, you had better secure Jessie," and she gave -him a little push.</p> - -<p>Thus committed to a decisive move, he asked if Miss Jessie would honour -him?</p> - -<p>Her blushing acceptance was rudely cut short by her parent, who said:</p> - -<p>"It's all very fine for you to make up sets, my good Nancy! but you -know as well as I do, that as soon as our commander-in-chief arrives, -she will upset the whole of our little bag of tricks, and make us -play with whoever <i>she</i> chooses—and talk of an angel!"—lifting her -eyes—"here comes the Honourable Mrs. Ffinch."</p> - -<hr class="chap" /> - -<h2>CHAPTER V</h2> - -<h3>"FINCHIE"</h3> - - -<p>The Honourable Mrs. Ffinch was a woman of forty; thin, dark, rather -sallow, and not specially noticeable, until she spoke—then her face -became transformed; the half-closed, greenish-grey eyes, lit up; the -ugly wide mouth revealed beautiful teeth, and an enchanting smile. -"Finchie" as her intimates called her, had been endowed with an -attractive voice, inexhaustible vitality, and a big brain.</p> - -<p>Even her enemies—and these were not a few—admitted her cleverness, -and powers of fascination; whilst her friends deplored the lamentable -fact that poor "Finchie's" great talents, had no suitable outlet within -the circumscribed orbit of a planter's wife. She was gifted with the -capabilities of a brilliant hostess, and could have held a <i>salon</i>, or -seriously engaged in political and diplomatic affairs; having the gift -of a strategic silence, wonderful success in extracting confidences, -and the capacity for holding strings;—unfortunately her talents -transcended her opportunities!</p> - -<p>As the eldest girl of a well-born, but impecunious family, she had, -so to speak, "taken the bush out of the gap," for her five sisters, -sacrificed her Romance, and married Hector Ffinch; a prosperous -tea-planter, whose stolid reserved character, found an irresistible -attraction in vivacious Julia Lamerton,—who had the power of imposing -her personality on all her surroundings.</p> - -<p>After a short and undemonstrative courtship, a quiet wedding and -handsome settlements, he carried off his bride to the East. India -fell far beneath the lady's expectations; a vivid imagination had -misled her; at "Clouds Rest" she found no gay, amusing cantonment, or -gorgeous, and amazing entourage—merely a vast tea estate, a large, -half-empty bungalow, and a tribe of brown retainers,—last, not least, -a dull enough husband! Hector was as heavy and immovable as a block of -granite; she, as mobile and restless, as a bit of quicksilver.</p> - -<p>For a time, she secretly wept, and bitterly bewailed her fate. It was -all so utterly different to what she had expected! Alas, for her plan -of inviting her sisters one by one, and marrying them off with success -and <i>éclat</i>! "Clouds Rest" was as hopeless (from a matrimonial point of -view) as any dead-and-alive rural village.</p> - -<p>However, she had one solid consolation—money; also, the still -undimmed halo of "the bride"; so she exercised her gifts of oratory -and persuasion, and pleaded most eloquently for the company of guests, -for a motor, for quantities of new furniture, and a trip home,—at -least once in three years. To all these requests, Hector lent a -favourable ear; even his lethargic mind realized what the change -of surroundings meant to a member of a large and talkative family, -and any amount of lively society. The couple had now been married -twelve years; and in spite of various visits to England, and many gay -excursions to the plains, Julia Ffinch was beginning to weary of this -comfortable exile; she could never be happy without a certain amount of -excitement—excitement was as necessary to her well-being, as petrol to -an engine.</p> - -<p>She did a little racing (under the rose)—the telegraph peon's red -turban looming along through the tea bushes, gave her appropriate -thrills; she played Bridge for rather high stakes; but what afforded -her the keenest enjoyment, was intruding into other people's lives; -pulling strings, directing their affairs, and making her puppets dance -right merrily! This, she considered to be a legitimate and delightful -entertainment, and by dint of clever manipulation, contrived to make -her immediate neighbours perform with praiseworthy success!</p> - -<p>It was thanks to <i>her</i> offices, that a planter's wife at Tirraputty -had left her home in a cloud of mystery; she had stage-managed the -engagement between Blanche Meach, and a civilian; a notable match,—but -then Blanche was very pretty. On the other hand, to her, was attributed -the rupture of the affair between Fanny Hicks, and a young fellow in -the Woods and Forests, and the dire disgrace of a German Missionary. -Many and various matters in which Mrs. Ffinch had taken a part, -afforded scope for interviews, letters, stormy scenes (at which she -assisted), cables, telegrams, sudden entrances and exits. All of these, -the clever operator of the puppet-play, most heartily enjoyed.</p> - -<p>Mrs. Ffinch descended the steps with leisurely precision,—offering -as she did so, an interesting display of brown silk stockings, and -neat brown shoes.—She was immediately followed by her grey-haired, -square-headed, and somewhat paunchy lord; and also a guest; a slim, -well-groomed gentleman, with closely set black eyes, and a slightly -vulpine nose. Some people thought Captain Calvert handsome; to others, -he unpleasantly recalled a well-bred greyhound with an uncertain temper.</p> - -<p>"Well, Nancy darling," Mrs. Ffinch began in her clear high voice, "so -here we are at last! We had a smash—ran into a bullock bandy at a -corner—the bandy, like the 'Coo,' got the worst of it!"</p> - -<p>Her glance travelled to Mayne, and as her eyes rested on him, they -brightened,—after the manner of a hunter who sees game afoot!</p> - -<p>A tall, well set-up young fellow, with clear-cut features, candid dark -eyes, and an air of distinction—<i>quite</i> a find!</p> - -<p>"This is Captain Mayne," explained the hostess, "Captain Mayne—Mrs. -Ffinch. He only arrived last evening," she added.</p> - -<p>"Oh, really!" murmured the lady; then turning to address him, "I did -not hear you were expected, and we always know our neighbours' affairs, -as soon as they do themselves."</p> - -<p>"<i>Sooner</i>," growled Dawson, who had joined the group, in a hideous -green and yellow blazer.</p> - -<p>"As a matter of fact," said Mayne, "I was not expected—but came."</p> - -<p>"As an agreeable surprise, I am sure!" interrupted Mrs. Ffinch, with -one of her radiant smiles. "I must hear all about it later. Nancy, if -we are to finish before dark, there's not a second to lose. Do let us -begin? I shall choose Captain Mayne, and you Nancy, had better take on -Captain Calvert."</p> - -<p>"Oh, but I'm booked to play with father!" she protested.</p> - -<p>"Nonsense, child! how ridiculous you are! You and he can play all day -to-morrow—<i>now</i> you must entertain your guests."</p> - -<p>It happened precisely as predicted by Mrs. Hicks,—who made a valiant -but useless attempt to retain the young man of her choice,—the -Commander-in-chief took all arrangements upon herself. Mayne was -secretly amused to see the tall thin figure in a panama hat, the centre -of an eager and well-disciplined crowd—who presently scattered—each -to their allotted post.</p> - -<p>After winning a hardly contested set, Mrs. Ffinch retired to a seat, -and called upon her partner to supply her with refreshments. At a -long table in their vicinity, two white-clad servants dispensed iced -drinks, and a tempting variety of cakes, and sandwiches. As Mrs. Ffinch -sipped claret cup, she asked for details respecting Mayne's visit, and -remarked as he concluded:</p> - -<p>"So you fell from the skies into a crowd of strangers! Well, at any -rate Laurence Travers can get you fine sport. You have come to the -right shop for that!"</p> - -<p>"Yes, but I am rather ashamed to take up his time; he is most awfully -busy just now."</p> - -<p>"That's true; he works like a horse for another man, and yet he would -not put out a finger to save the estate, when it was his own. I suppose -you have heard the tale?"</p> - -<p>"Well—Dawson did say something about trouble, and absence——"</p> - -<p>"Yes, the death of his wife broke Laurence Travers' heart, and the loss -of the child nearly sent him off his head."</p> - -<p>"He seems fairly sane now," remarked her listener.</p> - -<p>"Yes, case of locking the stable door when the steed—or the estate—is -gone. Laurence is much too emotional for a man; it was lucky for him -that Fairplains was bought by Tom Fletcher, who was sent out here for -his health. He is rich, entirely independent of coffee; such a good old -fellow, who always looks kindly on the under dog!"</p> - -<p>"And Travers was very much under?"</p> - -<p>"In the depths," was the emphatic reply; "he was dragged into unknown -liabilities by Doria, his manager—an absconding thief. Thanks to -Tom Fletcher, he has been set on his legs again; but he only has his -monthly screw—should anything happen to Laurence, that girl will be -destitute."</p> - -<p>"Well, we will hope for the best," said Mayne cheerfully. "Travers -looks as active as if he were five and twenty—more than a match for -young Byng," nodding towards the players. "I hope he may live long, and -be always as happy as he is now!"</p> - -<p>"Happy! that is just the word. Did you <i>ever</i> behold anything like -the absolute adoration that exists between father and daughter? She -is a dear child, but too elemental to be sophisticated, in spite of -her eleven years at home. You see her <i>heart</i> was always out here. She -is quite a unique flapper, and plays tennis like a boy. What a strong -service—do look!"</p> - -<p>Mayne looked as desired, and saw the light figure skimming about the -court, and noted the remarkable contrast between her brown face and -arms, and snow white linen frock; also the uncovered masses of rough -reddish hair that now and then caught a gleam of gold.</p> - -<p>"No beauty, poor darling, is she?" murmured Mrs. Ffinch.</p> - -<p>"If she would only give her complexion a chance!"</p> - -<p>"She won't. She is making up now for years of strict hat and glove -wearing; and doesn't bother about her personal appearance; all she -really cares for are—her father, and Sam the bull terrier. She is -also rather devoted to <i>me</i>." A pause. "Well, Captain Mayne," and she -laughed, "I'm waiting for you to say, 'I'm not surprised at <i>that</i>!'"</p> - -<p>He coloured a little, laughed too, and said:</p> - -<p>"Somehow I don't fancy such a compliment would go down up here."</p> - -<p>"You are right! We are a simple, and primitive community. If you will -dispose of my glass, I'll make you out a social A B C."</p> - -<p>"All right," he agreed, as he resumed his seat.</p> - -<p>"There is my husband, aged fifty-five, a hard-working enthusiast, who -lives for coffee, and sales; sales, and coffee. Ted Dawson too—though -he is a bit of a boor—is also an enthusiast, and will also be rich by -the time he is fifty—unless he finds gold."</p> - -<p>"Gold," repeated Mayne. "What—up here!"</p> - -<p>"No, down nearer the plains—some believe there are great reefs and old -workings swallowed up in the jungle. Learned people say that Herodotus -wrote of how the Indians paid Darius tribute in gold; also that Malabar -is <i>Ophir</i>! You know we are not far from there."</p> - -<p>"I've just come up from the coast,—and there's no sign of gold—that I -am prepared to swear."</p> - -<p>"Dr. Hicks believes in the reefs, and he is a very shrewd little man. -There you see the family. Mrs. Hicks has money; they say she was a -publican's widow; he doctors us all gratis, has a son in a Bank in -Madras, and the two girls, Fanny and Jessie. Jessie was extremely -pretty at sixteen; then suddenly her nose began to grow! We were -afraid it would never stop, but become a real proboscis—only for this -feature, Jessie is a beauty. She would look lovely in a Yashmak—her -eyes are so fine. Their mother is such an anxiety to those girls."</p> - -<p>"It's usually the other way on!"</p> - -<p>"Or rather it <i>was</i>—domestic affairs are upside down in these days. -The girls cannot control their parent's free and easy manners, her -love for bright colours, and dancing, and a good coarse story—a -<i>man's</i> story! Do look at her now, leaping up and down like a great -india-rubber ball! Isn't it depressing to watch such misdirected -energy?"</p> - -<p>After a moment's pause, she resumed: "There are two or three of the -Meaches here. Their old tyrant usually keeps them at home, toiling for -him, that he may gobble up all manner of delicacies, and live on the -fat of this land! I'm speaking of Major Meach, who owns a large family, -a small estate, and is our champion vampire; bleeds his descendants -white, and terrorizes over them all, from his chair in the verandah—he -always makes me think of a sick tiger."</p> - -<p>"Your neighbours don't seem to be very attractive," remarked Mayne -dryly.</p> - -<p>"I am beginning with the least interesting—keeping some as a <i>bonne -bouche</i>. Nancy, is what you see; refreshingly young, plastic, and -impulsive. The Meach sisters are remarkably pretty; their poor mother -is a dear martyred saint. The Pollards—those fair-haired boys and -the pink girl—are nice young people, but unfortunately a good way -off. Mrs. Pollard has a tongue! <i>she</i> cannot be too far! Fairplains -is central and here we all meet. India provides its own amusements. -How Captain Calvert is enjoying himself with Nancy! Her saucy -answers delight him; he has a ridiculous fancy for very young girls, -and—<i>parle du diable</i>—here he comes!"</p> - -<p>"Hullo, Mayne," he said, mopping his face as he lounged up, "I believe -we have met before—on board ship, eh?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, the <i>Medina</i>, coming out last September."</p> - -<p>"Fancy our forgathering on the hill top like this! Making any stay?"</p> - -<p>"A few weeks—I've come for a shoot."</p> - -<p>"Lucky chap! Well, I hope you'll have good sport. Can I get you -anything, dear lady?" turning to Mrs. Ffinch with anxious solicitude.</p> - -<p>"Yes, a match; I'm simply dying for a smoke."</p> - -<p>As he bent over her, Mayne rose and relinquished his chair to Mrs. -Hicks, who painfully out of breath, was clamouring for "a real big -tumbler of hiced 'Ock cup."</p> - -<p>The refreshment table was now besieged by a noisy intimate and animated -crowd, making fixtures for tennis, picnics, or shoots; in short all -manner of social meetings and amenities, and into the midst of them, -Mrs. Ffinch glided, in order to contribute her veto, arguments, -commands, or consent.</p> - -<p>Presently the sudden Indian dusk began to fall, enshrouding the view; -a cold blue haze was creeping nearer and nearer, and the congenial -company prepared to disperse.</p> - -<p>A great "Napier" car belonging to "Clouds Rest" lingered after the -Hicks, Meaches, and Pollards had ridden away, and when the lamps were -lighted, Mrs. Ffinch said:</p> - -<p>"Captain Mayne, I do hope we shall often see you; when Laurence Travers -is busy, come up to us. Nancy child, good-bye," embracing her with -motherly affection; "I intend to steal your new friend—whenever he is -bored here, send him to me," and with these words still trembling in -the air, the great motor slid silently away.</p> - -<p>"That was not very complimentary to <i>you</i>, was it?" said Mayne, turning -to Nancy.</p> - -<p>"Oh, she didn't intend it in that way," protested the girl. "She says -a great deal she does not mean—so do I!" and she laughed. "There are -no end of attractions at 'Clouds Rest'; a billiard table, an electric -piano, the motor, and a 'mug' cook, and here we have so little to -offer. No indeed—I'm <i>not</i> fishing! but when father has an extra heavy -day, and you are idle, I do hope you will not worry about <i>us</i>—but -just take Finchie at her word, and ride over to 'Clouds Rest.'"</p> - -<hr class="chap" /> - -<h2>CHAPTER VI</h2> - -<h3>THE PANTHER'S FIRST VICTIM</h3> - - -<p>The tennis party had dissolved, dinner was an agreeable memory, and -Mayne with his new friends, sat out in the broad verandah, and gazed at -a moon,—which, like a pale golden disc, hung midway in the dark blue -sky.</p> - -<p>The two men were smoking, Sam was circling uneasily round his unheeding -mistress, when she suddenly said:</p> - -<p>"Do tell me, Captain Mayne, what you think of Mrs. Ffinch—isn't she -charming?"</p> - -<p>"She seems to be awfully clever, and amusing, and full of go."</p> - -<p>"Yes," said Travers, "she manages the whole community with the very -best intentions. I can't help feeling a little sorry for her."</p> - -<p>"Sorry, father!" exclaimed Nancy, "why <i>sorry</i>?"</p> - -<p>"Well, you see, she has no children, no positive home interests; her -wonderful talents and exertions, are squandered among strangers. Ffinch -has made a fortune—some say <i>two</i>—and yet he won't stir. He is rooted -in coffee; so poor woman, is she! If he only would take her to London, -there backed up by his long purse, she would be in her natural element; -an admirable organizer of important functions, bazaars, charity balls, -and political receptions; dealing with affairs on a grand scale, -instead of running our tuppenny-halfpenny concerns."</p> - -<p>"But these, no doubt with success?" said Mayne.</p> - -<p>"Well, yes, on the whole—there have been one or two lapses, but a -sacrificial goat was always on the spot!"</p> - -<p>"Father!" broke in Nancy, "how can you be so horrid? You are -talking like an odious cynic. Finchie has done no end of wonderful -things—patching up all the quarrels, and getting people into good -posts. She is always right—if ever she wants a scapegoat—here am <i>I</i>!"</p> - -<p>"Noble child!" Travers ejaculated, and he surveyed his daughter with -laughing eyes.</p> - -<p>"Captain Mayne," she resumed, "don't you think Captain Calvert good -looking?"</p> - -<p>"Um—no," then after a doubtful pause, "more the other thing,—since -you ask me."</p> - -<p>"Bad looking, I suppose you mean. How funny!"</p> - -<p>"I understand," said Travers, "that Mephistophelian cast—it does -appeal to women and children."</p> - -<p>"You have got into the wrong side of your chair, Daddy. What dreadful -things you are saying—talking of Finchie's scapegoats, and seeing a -likeness to the old gentleman, in Captain Calvert."</p> - -<p>"I must confess I am rather surprised to find him in this part of the -world," said Mayne, "he is not a sportsman—but a Society man, who -likes big functions, the theatre, and cards."</p> - -<p>"Oh, it's pretty warm down below just now," replied Travers, "and the -Ffinches do their guests uncommonly well. Calvert is a pleasant fellow, -and comes over here sometimes for a game of tennis; he and Nancy are -pals. Well," rising as he spoke, "to-morrow I must be up and about at -five o'clock—so that you and I can shoot in the early afternoon. Nancy -child, it is time for bed, and just look how Sam is yawning!"</p> - -<p>"Why, Daddy, it's only half-past ten," she protested, but all the same -she rose, and having bid Mayne good-night, and folded her father in an -overpowering embrace, went away to her own room, attended by her sleepy -shadow.</p> - -<hr class="tb" /> - -<p>Time at Fairplains flew with what seemed to Mayne, amazing speed; the -shooting surpassed his most sanguine expectations; his excursions to -the low country had resulted in two fine tigers, and several pairs -of noble horns. When Travers was unable to accompany him, Ted Dawson -and Andy Meach had come to the front, and shown the stranger capital -sport. Mayne found this simple life delightful; a novel perspective and -atmosphere; instead of familiar barrack bugles, here he was awoke by -the clanging of a gong, summoning the coolies to their labours.</p> - -<p>With Mayne it was a case of a happy surrender to his environment; -the delicious life-giving air, good wholesome food, and congenial -society, all contributed to this condition. He enjoyed listening to -playful family arguments and squabbles,—when weary, after a long day's -tramp, he lounged at delicious ease, in a comfortable, if shabby old -chair; there was generally something piquante and provoking in Nancy's -conversation. He and she were now on the most friendly footing; he had -given her elaborate instructions in the important art of making a tie; -she mended his socks, replaced lost buttons, and had even cut his hair! -Also he called her Nancy, and was a little disposed to lecture, and -tease her, in big elder brother fashion.</p> - -<p>Mayne, however, discovered that there were two distinct Nancies; one -of the morning, the other of the afternoon. The earlier young lady was -a serious person, with the heavy responsibility of a household upon -her shoulders. From chotah hazri till mid-day, she was occupied, first -with the cook—a bearded retainer, who had carried her in his arms. -The two conferred with the deepest solemnity over menus, the bazaar -accounts, and the contents of the store-rooms. Then she visited the -poultry yard, and the garden, superintended and helped to fill and trim -the lamps, and finally sat down to make or mend. Nancy was an expert -with her needle, and frequently extended a kindly hand towards the rags -and tatters of "The Corner"; altogether a grave, silent, industrious -mistress of Fairplains.</p> - -<p>The afternoon Nancy was her opposite; neither grave, nor silent, but -an exuberantly irresponsible chattering chit, who broke into song as -she went about, in a sweet rather childish voice, waltzed her reluctant -parent up and down the verandah, played tennis, rode with boyish pluck -and abandon, sat with dangling legs on the ends of tables, talked -ridiculous nonsense to the dogs and ponies, and was rarely seen to open -a book, or to write a letter.</p> - -<p>Mayne, who had no sisters, or girl cousins, mentally adopted Nancy as -something of both; but as Miss Travers, and a young lady, it never -occurred to him to take her seriously.</p> - -<p>The Fairplains guest had been hospitably entertained by all the -neighbours; tennis parties at the Hicks', tiffin at "The Corner," and -dinner at Clouds Rest—where he was in particular request,—a request -that savoured of a command—for Mrs. Ffinch had discovered that she -knew his people at home—and her invitations were both frequent, -and imperious. Travers was far too busy to dine abroad, Nancy never -deserted her parent, and on several occasions Mayne went alone to -Clouds Rest to dine and sleep. This abode was more on the lines of an -English country house; here were curtains, carpets, elegant modern -furniture, and appointments; nothing shabby or ramshackle, in or about -the premises, which was staffed with first-rate native servants, had a -luxurious "go as you please" atmosphere, and kept late hours. Champagne -and caviare, and other important importations were offered at dinner; -after the best Havanas came Auction Bridge at high points.</p> - -<p>Captain Calvert still lingered in these "Capuan" quarters. One morning, -he and Mayne awaited their hostess in the verandah, where breakfast was -served; she was an hour late, and Captain Calvert's sharp appetite had -undoubtedly affected his temper. After one or two nasty speeches about -"damned lazy women," and "rotten arrangements," his remarks became more -personal, and he twitted his companion with his mad craze for shikar.</p> - -<p>"Upon my soul, I believe you'd go anywhere, even among half-castes and -natives, if they were to promise you an extra good bag."</p> - -<p>"Perhaps I would—in fact, I'm sure I would," admitted Mayne. "By the -way, apropos of natives and shooting—what about <i>your</i> shoot up North? -I heard you talking to a Nawab coming out on the <i>Medina</i>, and you put -in pretty strongly for an invite."</p> - -<p>"Yes—did I?" drawled Calvert, lifting his thin black eyebrows, "I -forget—I believe. I—er—wanted to have a look at the country."</p> - -<p>"So it did not come off, eh?"</p> - -<p>"No, as well as I remember, there was some hitch about dates. Talking -of dates," he went on, with a significant glance, "are you putting in -<i>all</i> your leave at Fairplains?"</p> - -<p>"I hope so," was the bold rejoinder, "I shall be jolly sorry when it -comes to my last week!"</p> - -<p>"Ah! Well, yes, the little red-haired girl is not half bad fun,—brown -as a coolie, but what delicious feet, and ankles! If she were to sit -reversed, with her feet above the table—I see," catching Mayne's -furious glance. "Well then, I'll give you another picture. Some day, -Miss Nancy will be a handsome woman,—though she's more of a boy, and a -tomboy now. She has odd flashes—that set one wondering, and I bet you, -will give her husband a lot of surprises!"</p> - -<p>"That'll do!—don't let us discuss her any further!" exclaimed Mayne -impatiently.</p> - -<p>"Hullo!" exclaimed Calvert with a loud laugh, "I apologize! Upon my -soul I'd no idea——"</p> - -<p>"There <i>is</i> no idea," interrupted Mayne. "Miss Travers and I are very -good friends. She is one of the straightest and the best. So natural -and simple."</p> - -<p>"How nice for you!"</p> - -<p>"I only wish she was my sister," persisted her champion.</p> - -<p>"By Jove,—do you?" drawled Calvert. "Well, <i>I</i> don't!" and he expelled -a cloud of smoke from his thin, well-cut nostrils. "I'm, as you -see,—smoking like the Indians,—to appease hunger. Presently I shall -take a reef in my belt. I say," after a pause, "look at old Ffinch -riding along the hillside. <i>He</i> breakfasted hours ago! I can't imagine -why he does not chuck all this? Everyone knows he is quite too grossly -prosperous—and she, with her talents, and her energy, is thrown away -out here."</p> - -<p>"Yes," agreed Mayne, "she's awfully clever, and go-ahead."</p> - -<p>"A lot of what Americans call, 'Get up and go!' about her," said -Calvert. "Wonderful driving force,—and what a woman to talk! She'd -make a fine figure of a Sunday in Hyde Park; or taking a hand in some -big revolution. Yes"—slowly closing his eyes—"I can <i>see</i> her in the -tumbril," he concluded, with morose vindictiveness.</p> - -<p>"I say, what amazing pictures you have in your mind's eye," said -Mayne—who was not imaginative, "a cinematograph isn't in it!"</p> - -<p>"Oh, here she comes at last!" said Calvert, tossing away his cheroot, -and rising, he added with his most courtly air, "Welcome, welcome, dear -lady—as the sun upon a darkened world."</p> - -<p>Immediately after breakfast, Mayne ordered the cob, and rode away in -spite of Mrs. Ffinch's urgent appeals for him to remain, and "spend -a nice long day." He felt that at present, he could not endure any -more of Calvert's society. What a poisonous tongue,—what a shameless -climber; and there was such calculation and method in his schemes. -He, by his own confession, made a point of cultivating the right -people—chiefly through their womenkind—and cherished well-founded -hopes of a comfortable, and prominent post on someone's staff.</p> - -<p>He insinuated that he (Mayne) was sponging on the Travers', he read -the accusation in the fellow's eyes—(Calvert himself was just the -sort to cheat at croquet, and sponge on old ladies).—With regard to -his host, he felt blameless. Travers treated him as the son of his old -school-fellow; he and Nancy made him one of themselves, and allowed -him to share in their interests, jokes, and even secrets. <i>He</i> knew -all about the new habit, that was on its way from England for Nancy's -birthday. Here his reflections were put an end to by the sight to -Fairplains plantation, the motley pack, and Nancy herself.</p> - -<p>That same night after the household had retired, and the premises -were supposed to be wrapped in sleep (though some of the servants -were gambling in their go-downs) Mayne was aroused by a wild piercing -scream. He jumped out of bed, and as he hurried on some clothes, saw -a bare-footed white figure, lamp in hand, flash down the verandah -shrieking:</p> - -<p>"Sam! Sam! A panther has taken him! Daddy—Daddy—hurry!"</p> - -<p>Mayne snatched his gun, and rushed out; the light was very faint, but -as he ran up the path, he was aware of a choking noise, and a something -large bounding along not far ahead. He followed the sound, in among the -rocks and bushes, and then suddenly lost it. By this time, the whole -place was swarming with men armed with sticks and lanterns, Nancy in a -blue garment, and her father half dressed, heading an excited crowd. -Alas! the tragic truth had to be faced—Sam was <i>gone</i>! taken from the -door of his mistress's room, and carried off in his sleep, by one of -those treacherous devils.</p> - -<p>With bobbing lanterns, crashing sticks, and loud harsh shouts, the -whole of the rocks were most thoroughly beaten, but without result; -of dog or panther there was not a trace. After an hour's exhaustive -search, Mayne returned to the bungalow—his lamp had gone out. Here -in the verandah he distinguished a sobbing figure; Nancy, alone and in -uncontrollable grief. Between her sobs she moaned:</p> - -<p>"Oh, my poor darling Sam! Oh, the cruelty—oh, Daddy, what shall I -do—what shall I do?" and she suddenly flung herself upon Mayne, and -sobbed out in the tone of a child asking for consolation, "Daddy, -Daddy, what <i>shall</i> I do?"</p> - -<p>They were the same height, and in the dark, she had mistaken him -for her father,—who was still pursuing a hopeless search among the -rocks,—but the situation was not the less embarrassing,—especially as -the girl clung to her supposed parent, with both arms clasped tightly -round his neck, and her face buried in his coat. Suddenly she realized -her mistake, and with a violent jerk, drew herself away.</p> - -<p>"Why, you're not Daddy!" she gasped out, breathlessly, "I know by the -feel of your coat. It's Captain Mayne—I've been—hugging."</p> - -<p>"It's all right, Nancy," taking her hands in his. "Poor little girl! -I'm just as sorry for you, as ever I can be, and I'll never rest, till -I bring you in the skin of the brute that has killed Sam. Here is your -father now," and Mayne tactfully withdrew, and abandoned the pair to -their grief,—Nancy's the wildest, and most poignant, that he had ever -witnessed.</p> - -<p>The following day, Francis the butler, mysteriously imparted to Mayne -the news, that Sam's collar, and one paw had been found.</p> - -<p>"But say not one word to the Missy. We bury in dogs' graveyard; the -beast is a big female with young cubs, therefore is she overbold. That -dog Sam," and his black eyes looked moist, "I also loved him, too much."</p> - -<hr class="chap" /> - -<h2>CHAPTER VII</h2> - -<h3>EIGHTEEN ON TUESDAY</h3> - - -<p>For two days after the loss of Sam, Nancy remained inconsolable; she -could neither eat nor rest, her face looked small, her tragic eyes -sunken and dim; also she wept for hours,—utterly indifferent to -consolation, or chocolates. "The Corner" after the day's work, ascended -to sympathize, Mrs. Ffinch descended with a similar kind intention, and -expressed shocked concern; but her kissing, endearments, and honeyed -words, were a waste of time and breath.</p> - -<p>"I shall never get over it, Finchie, never!" moaned the girl, "and I -won't rest till the panther has been killed, and <i>skinned</i>. Daddy has -offered a reward of thirty rupees,—but so far it is no use."</p> - -<p>"Take her out riding—<i>make</i> her go," commanded Mrs. Ffinch, "she can't -sit here all day nursing her grief. Try what you can do, Captain Mayne, -take her up to the Meaches, Nellie has returned home, and Major Meach -always amuses Nancy."</p> - -<p>"I don't think anything would amuse her now," he answered.</p> - -<p>"Look at Togo," burst out Nancy, "<i>he</i> knows. All yesterday he lay with -his face to the wall—here in the verandah—and he has not touched a -morsel since it happened. Oh, my poor Sam!" The name was almost a cry.</p> - -<p>"If you and Togo starve yourselves, my dear, what good will that do -poor Sam?" inquired the practical visitor, "I'm sure he would not like -you to die too. You really must cheer up, for your father's sake. I am -awfully sorry myself; as the son of our dear old Dan, Sam was a sort of -nephew. We will all give him a great funeral——"</p> - -<p>She stopped abruptly as it flashed into her mind that there were no -remains. Ultimately her powers of persuasion, proved effectual, and -Nancy reluctantly agreed to give her pony some exercise, and not to -indulge her emotions in such frantic ungovernable native fashion. -Travers was as usual busy among his coolies, and Mayne and Nancy set -off alone, and rode over to the Meaches, precisely as Mrs. Ffinch had -ordained.</p> - -<p>It was a cheerful breezy trip; sometimes the road lay in hollows, -winding round a valley, and between blackberry bushes, wattles, ash -trees, and wild roses, recalling an English lane; or again, over grassy -uplands, with a delightful breeze, driving white clouds overhead.</p> - -<p>By and by, Nancy recovered her self-control, and her tongue,—a member -that was never long mislaid.</p> - -<p>The Meach family lived eight miles from Fairplains, on a poor worn out, -and out of the way estate; Major Meach, having spent all he possessed, -invested his wife's little fortune in this, so to speak "refuge," and -here she and her offspring slaved and struggled, in order to provide -their old man of the sea, with everything he demanded in the way of -attention, and comfort.</p> - -<p>Part of the estate was let to a native, part was worked by Andy, -whilst Mrs. Meach and her three pretty daughters kept cows and -poultry, and sold eggs and butter among their neighbours. Blanche, the -beauty,—thanks to Mrs. Ffinch,—was satisfactorily married; Tom, the -youngest son, slaved in an office, and sent all he could spare to his -harassed mother who struggled to keep house, and maintain a presentable -family, on one hundred rupees a month.</p> - -<p>The Misses Meach emerged into the verandah when they heard the glad -sound of voices, accompanied by the clatter of hoofs, and Gladys and -Nellie joyfully hailed Nancy, who instantly in a strangled voice, -claimed their sympathy for her irreparable loss.</p> - -<p>"The dear faithful fellow!—how dreadful!" said Nellie. "I remember one -time, you went home by the old road, he missed you, and came back here, -and lay all night by the chair you had been sitting on."</p> - -<p>"Bah! what's a dog!" snarled Major Meach, a preposterously fat man, who -now appeared, and with a curt salute to Mayne, sank with heavy violence -into a creaking wicker chair. "Lots to be had! We can give you half a -dozen—greedy, good-for-nothing brutes!"</p> - -<p>Mrs. Meach, a worn, thin woman, with remarkably red hands, and a still -pretty face, who had been ordering tea, now came forward to welcome -her guests. Poor lady! her life had been, and was, a tragedy. Once a -beauty, she was thought to have made a fine match when she married -Captain Meach of the Light Lancers,—a man with a nice fortune. The -nice fortune, he squandered on himself; and poor Amy Meach, after -knocking about the world from garrison town to cantonment, saving, -pinching, rearing a family, and keeping up appearances, was now the -drudge, and servant, of her selfish and unwieldy tyrant.</p> - -<p>Her hope, comfort, and joy, was in her children; possibly some day, she -may be in a position to sit down and be served by other people, to read -a novel, or even to take a morning in bed!</p> - -<p>Everything at Panora seemed cheap and faded,—except the fat helpless -old Major, and his three pretty girls. He insisted on keeping up "his -position," as he called it; the shabby, timid-looking servants, wore -in their turbans, the badge of a regiment that had been only too -thankful to get rid of their master!</p> - -<p>He, who was a notorious slacker, now posed as a former martinet, and -present authority, and his faithful family believed in the fable. The -truth was, that but for Mrs. Meach, who was popular, and for whom -everyone was sorry, he would not have been "let down," so to speak, -without a nasty jar.</p> - -<p>The Tyrant liked to fasten on Mayne,—who occasionally escorted Nancy, -when she came to see her friends,—and to question him sharply on Army -matters, and utter high boastings of "my old regiment—Cavalry—<i>I</i> -never could stand being a mud-crusher!" and as he knew that Mayne was -an Infantry officer, this remark was, to say the least, tactless.</p> - -<p>When they all sat at tea, he talked with his mouth full, helped himself -to hot cakes—two at a time—bragged, snubbed his family, laid down -the law, and made rude personal remarks. With regard to his daughter -Nellie, he said:</p> - -<p>"We sent Nellie down to try her luck in Bangalore; but there was no -market, no buyers—and here she is, back on our hands like a bad penny."</p> - -<p>Poor Nellie blushed till there were tears in her eyes.</p> - -<p>"I'll give her to anyone with a pound of tea—ha! ha! ha!"</p> - -<p>"If you were <i>my</i> father, and made such rude speeches," said Nancy -fiercely, "I'd be very glad to give <i>you</i> away, with a whole -plantation!"</p> - -<p>"There you go, spitfire!" he exclaimed.—He rather liked Nancy, because -she boldly opposed him.—"You've been spoiled, my good girl; if your -father had given you some <i>sound</i> thrashings, you would not be so -cocksey—and such a bad example to other young women."</p> - -<p>"I think," said Mayne, rising, "it is time for us to make a start," and -he eyed the old bully, with a menacing stare.</p> - -<p>"Oh, ho!" and he chuckled. "Nancy is used to me—aren't you, red poll? -<i>You</i> don't mind!"</p> - -<p>"I'll overlook the outrage this time, but as an apology, I must have -Gladys and Nellie to spend the day on Monday."</p> - -<p>"Can't be done—no ponies!"</p> - -<p>"Then I'll borrow the Clouds Rest car."</p> - -<p>"Will you! You've cheek enough for anything! If you can get the car, -you shall have the girls, and the Missus thrown in—there's an offer -for you!"</p> - -<p>Mayne, who felt a touch of sincere pity for poor Mrs. Meach and her -browbeaten daughters, experienced a sense of profound relief when the -farewells were over, and he and Nancy rode away.</p> - -<p>"Look in again soon, young fellow!" shouted Major Meach. "Nancy, tell -your father to send me up a bag of his number one coffee—it can come -in the car."</p> - -<p>"I don't know about that bag of coffee," said Mayne; "but old Meach -won't see <i>me</i> again."</p> - -<p>"Isn't he a horror?"</p> - -<p>"I'm awfully sorry for his daughters; when he told the fair one to -'shut up,' I felt inclined to shy a plate at him!"</p> - -<p>"And he is such an ungrateful old monster! Only for the way those girls -work, and go without things, there would be no cigars, no Europe hams, -tinned stores, or whisky and soda. He <i>must</i> have everything he wants, -or he yells, and storms like a madman. I've told him one or two plain -truths about his selfishness."</p> - -<p>"Have you? I must say you are fairly plucky."</p> - -<p>"Nicky Byng admires Nellie, but it's no good; all the same, if I <i>do</i> -get the car, I'll let him know."</p> - -<p>"Fancy trying your hand at match-making,—a child like <i>you</i>!" and -Mayne turned in his saddle, and surveyed his companion, with a broad -smile.</p> - -<p>"Of course, I know it's no use. Finchie throws buckets of cold water -on the affair; she hopes to marry Nellie off, the same as Blanche -Sandilands. Blanche has a splendid car, lives in a big house on the -Adyar, and entertains half Madras. All the same, I think Nellie likes -Nicky."</p> - -<p>"Then why mind Mrs. Ffinch, and her cold water?"</p> - -<p>"We all mind her; she is so far-sighted, and clever—all but Ned, he -thinks her too meddlesome, and anyway, she <i>did</i> talk Jessie Hicks out -of accepting him."</p> - -<p>"Do you suppose, that Mrs. Ffinch could talk you out of accepting -anyone?"</p> - -<p>"How can you be so silly! Anyway, there will be no occasion, for I -don't intend to marry."</p> - -<p>"Bosh! Wait till you are older, and then we shall see what we shall -see."</p> - -<p>"I'm quite old enough to know my own mind."</p> - -<p>"Not you!"</p> - -<p>"Don't be rude. Do you know, that I shall be eighteen on Tuesday?"</p> - -<p>"I know that you are trying to pull my leg, miss! You are not an hour -over sixteen—if so much. I should put you down at fourteen if I were -asked."</p> - -<p>"Well, if you won't believe me, you can see the certificate of birth -and baptism.—I was born at Fairplains."</p> - -<p>"But, Nancy," suddenly pulling up his cob, "I've always understood you -were a mere child—if you really <i>are</i> eighteen—I—I feel completely -<i>bouleversé</i>; in other words, shattered; for I've been treating you as -a little girl, and all the time, you are a young lady! I declare, I'm -so upset, I shall tumble off the cob!"</p> - -<p>"Don't tumble yet; stick on, and I'll explain. Daddy likes me to look -a mere child, and can't endure the idea of my growing up. So I always -wear simple frocks, and short skirts—it was only the other day, I put -my hair up."</p> - -<p>"Did you wear a pig-tail?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, of course I did—it was a beauty, too."</p> - -<p>"And I know I'd have pulled it! that's one temptation removed! Well, -let me here and now apologize for my many enormities. I'm most -frightfully sorry; I wish you were only sixteen."</p> - -<p>"You may go on just as if I were. They all do."</p> - -<p>"Thank you, Nancy. And so Mrs. Ffinch is law-maker, the local dictator, -and match-maker?"</p> - -<p>"Yes. She is immensely proud of the Meach affair; but not so proud -of Fred Pollard's match. She married him off to a girl who was most -unsuitable—so much so, that Fred fled to Ceylon, and the Pollards are -not very good friends with Finchie! She does not wish Ted to marry -Jessie Hicks; for then Nicky would have to move out of The Corner, and -he might take it into his head, to run away with Nellie—and she has -magnificent plans for her."</p> - -<p>"Wheels within wheels," exclaimed Mayne. "It strikes me all the same, -that these young people are not desperately in love; if they were, -they'd never take all this so tamely, or so to speak, lying down."</p> - -<p>"Well you see, they are all very busy one way or another, and have no -time. When they <i>do</i> meet at tennis, Finchie mixes the sets, and sorts -them out, as you saw!"</p> - -<p>"Yes, I saw; but I must confess I did not notice the usual interesting -signs of mutual attachment."</p> - -<p>"No? What are the signs?"</p> - -<p>"I don't know much about it, but sitting in one another's pockets, -holding one another's hands, and obviously wishing us all at Jericho."</p> - -<p>"Yes. Haven't you been in love yourself? You <i>must</i>—you are getting -on!"</p> - -<p>"Getting on, you rude child! Why, I'm only seven and twenty. As to -being in love—no, never what you may call, seriously."</p> - -<p>"Seriously?"</p> - -<p>"That is to say unable to eat, or sleep—living solely to see <i>her</i>—or -if not her—the postman, who carries her priceless letters."</p> - -<p>"Ah, you jeer at love! Perhaps it may pay you out one day."</p> - -<p>"Perhaps! And what about you, Nancy? Has no smart young tennis champion -awakened your interest?"</p> - -<p>She burst into a peal of laughter—her first laugh for four whole days.</p> - -<p>"No, I've never been in love—or ever will; I haven't a tiny scrap to -spare from Daddy; and here he comes to meet us—with poor lonely Togo."</p> - -<p>"Well, Nance," he called out, "I've just fixed up a splendid treat for -your birthday."</p> - -<p>"What is it? Oh, tell me quickly—quickly!"</p> - -<p>"We are going down to Holikul for three days for a shoot. There is a -big native holiday that draws off our coolies, and I've invited the -Corner boys; you shall undertake the commissariat, and play the queen -of the party."</p> - -<p>"How delightful, Daddy!" cried Nancy; then as she glanced at Mayne, -"Oh, poor Captain Mayne!—your jaw has dropped four cubic inches; but -I do assure you, it will be all right—when I'm out on a beat, and sit -up in a machan, I'm so deadly, deadly, quiet, that you might hear a fly -sneeze!"</p> - -<hr class="chap" /> - -<h2>CHAPTER VIII</h2> - -<h3>THE PANTHER'S SECOND VICTIM</h3> - - -<p>The expedition down to the Holikul jungle, proved a triumphant success, -not only in the matter of sport, but of well-chosen and congenial -company; Nancy, far from being an encumbrance, largely contributed to -the comfort of the party.</p> - -<p>The little camp was surprisingly well found; ice never failed, a -tablecloth and brilliant tropical flowers, gave a touch of civilization -to the alfresco meals, and after a long arduous beat among sweltering -undergrowth, it was agreeable and refreshing, to sit out in the -starlight, whilst Nancy and Nicky Byng sang solos and duets, the -servants squatted round at a respectful distance, and Togo kept -solitary ward.</p> - -<p>Nancy proved to be well versed in forest lore. What she had picked up -as a small child, when accompanying her father on various shooting -expeditions, had never faded from a mind which held all impressions -with tenacity. She knew the names of strange trees, and gorgeous -flowering shrubs, and could relate, stirring legends and fabulous tales -of the mysterious white tiger.</p> - -<p>In her own line, Miss Travers proved as successful a hostess, as -her great example at Clouds Rest, and in spite of her ingenuous -girlhood,—had a way of mothering, and managing, the entire circle. -There was not a spark of coquetry in her composition. She chatted to -Ted and Nicky, precisely as if she were their pal and comrade, and it -was evident to Mayne, that the "Corner boys," no less than Travers -himself, worshipped the sole of this wood elf's small brown shoe!</p> - -<p>Her birthday was an auspicious occasion. The house-servants, and head -shikari, offered bouquets and wreaths; "The Corner" presented a tennis -bat, and Mayne had surreptitiously placed a little parcel upon Nancy's -plate. As she opened the blue velvet case, and beheld its contents, she -gave a scream of delighted surprise.</p> - -<p>"Oh, Daddy, how dare you? you wicked man!" she cried; "it's far too -beautiful for me. I've always longed for a wristlet watch,—but never a -gold one like <i>this</i>—why, it's prettier than Finchie's," and she rose -to embrace him.</p> - -<p>"Here is the wicked man," he protested, pointing to Mayne; "my present -has not arrived, but I expect it is waiting for you up at Fairplains."</p> - -<p>"Captain Mayne," she exclaimed, with dancing eyes, "how ever so much -too kind of you! I declare I'd like to kiss you. May I, Daddy?" -glancing at him interrogatively.</p> - -<p>Mayne looked at him expectantly, and stood up, prepared to accept this -astonishing favour.</p> - -<p>"My dear child," said Travers, "you are eighteen to-day, and must not -go thrusting your kisses on young men."</p> - -<p>"But I never did before," she protested.</p> - -<p>"You should keep your first kiss for someone, who may come along one -day!"</p> - -<p>"Oh, Daddy," she murmured, blushing deeply through her tan, "now you -have made me feel so shy, and uncomfortable. You all know," appealing -to Ted and Nicky, "that I only wanted to do something, just to show -Captain Mayne, how delighted I was—and am."</p> - -<p>"You can do that in another way, Nancy," he replied, resuming his seat. -"Call me by my Christian name—the same as these fellows."</p> - -<p>"Derek—yes—and it's much prettier than Ted, or Nicky."</p> - -<p>"So now, Mayne," said Nicky, "you are paid off handsomely, and at <i>our</i> -expense."</p> - -<p>It was a merry, not to say noisy breakfast party; Nancy with two long -white wreaths round her neck (in a third she had invested her father), -the wristlet watch on her mahogany wrist, was in the wildest spirits.</p> - -<p>"I woke this morning very early," she said; "almost before the birds, -not because I was expecting presents in my stocking,—like at Christmas -time, but because I was going to be eighteen, and I seemed to hear -the bamboos—you all know how they whisper—murmuring to one another, -'Eighteen, eighteen, eighteen!'"</p> - -<p>"Eighteen, will have to take to gloves and corsets," said Nicky, as he -fumbled for his pipe.</p> - -<p>"Fancy mentioning such an article in the free-as-air jungle," protested -Nancy; "and anyway, my waist is only twenty inches."</p> - -<p>"Nancy, spare us these particulars," protested her father. "One would -think you were among a pack of women."</p> - -<p>"Never mind him, Nancy," said Byng. "Tell him it's too late to start to -keep you in bounds—and as for waists—Ted's is fifty."</p> - -<p>"Daddy, I do wonder what you have got for me," she asked abruptly. -"Won't you tell me?"</p> - -<p>"I know," said Mayne; "it's awfully nice, you'll like it better than -anything—and it's coming all the way from London."</p> - -<p>"Then it must have cost a heap of money," she exclaimed. "Oh, Daddy!"</p> - -<p>"Oh, Nancy," he echoed, "it's time we made a start; the shikaris are -hanging about, so don't let us waste any more time," and he rose, and -broke up the party.</p> - -<p>Those three days in the Holikul jungles were a delightful, and -flawless memory, to all concerned. How rarely can mortals say this! -Sunburnt and weary, the Fairplains party returned to the shelter of -a roof, and a daily delivery of letters, and parcels. The habit had -arrived—moreover, it fitted.</p> - -<p>Two evenings later, Travers and Mayne, Nancy and the head shikari, had -been for a short, perfunctory beat, round the base of the hill on which -the bungalow was situated. They were homeward bound, the bag, a mere -peacock. Mayne and his host were a little in advance of Nancy, and last -came the shikari, carrying the peacock, and Travers' gun.</p> - -<p>"This day week," said Mayne, "I shall be on my way——"</p> - -<p>As he was speaking, they turned an abrupt corner, and there, within -forty yards, on a slab of rock, lay a sleek panther, and her two fat -cubs! As she sprang erect, Mayne ran forward, and fired. But slightly -wounded, she instantly leapt at him, and with such headlong ferocity, -and impetus, that the weight of her body knocked him down, and sent -his gun flying. Without a second's hesitation, Travers, armed with -only a stick, rushed to where the savage brute was worrying her -prostrate victim, and with all his might, hit her a smashing blow -across the nose. Turning on him, with a furious snarl, she seized him -by the forearm, but before she could do more, Tipoo ran up, and shot -her through the head. She fell back, and after a few kicks, and one -convulsive quiver, rolled over stone dead.</p> - -<p>The whole scene had taken place within less than the space of two -minutes. Nancy at first had stood by, a horrified, and paralysed -spectator, but when the panther attacked her father,—she ran forward, -and struck at it frantically, with her stick.</p> - -<p>And now to take stock of the casualties! Mayne, thanks to a heavy -shooting coat, had merely a few bruises, and scratches—nothing to -speak of,—in short a miraculous escape. Travers also, had got off with -a scratch on his neck, and a bite on his forearm. The latter might -have been worse,—but his coat had also saved him.</p> - -<p>"Sam's leopard—and you nearly got him!" he said to Mayne. "You fired a -bit too soon, my boy."</p> - -<p>"I believe I did—I was so keen to get the brute before she -bolted,—I'm most awfully sorry."</p> - -<p>"Oh, it's all right," replied Travers. "I'm well used to these -scraps—she's a fine size."</p> - -<p>"Never mind the panther, Dad," interposed Nancy, "but come along at -once and have your arm dressed, and Captain Mayne too," and she ran on -before them towards the bungalow, to collect, and prepare remedies.</p> - -<p>Nancy had learned "First Aid," and was accustomed to doctor the -household and coolies; she dressed the wounds, and scratches with -prompt and skilful fingers, forbade all stimulants, and commanded her -patients to rest till dinner-time. This was by no means the first time -that Travers had been in a "hand to claw" combat, with a wild beast, -but to Mayne, it was a novel experience, and he felt not a little -shaken, and excited. It is not a pleasant sensation to have a heavy, -evil-smelling wild animal, on the top of you, and murderous yellow -fangs within six inches of your throat.</p> - -<p>The following morning, the two patients described themselves as -"quite fit." Travers with his arm in a sling, went about his everyday -business, and Mayne commenced to make arrangements for his impending -departure. That evening Travers appeared to be fatigued, his eyes were -unusually bright, and Nancy's smiling face, wore an anxious expression.</p> - -<p>"Dad, I'd like to send for Dr. Hicks, to have a look at your arm," she -said, as they sat in the verandah after dinner.</p> - -<p>"Certainly not, Nancy," he replied testily; "you have done everything -that is necessary. I daresay I have brought a touch of fever from -Holikul. That's all that ails me. The bite is nothing. Now look here, -little girl, I won't have you worry."</p> - -<p>As his tone was authoritative, Nancy, whatever she may have thought, -said nothing further.</p> - -<p>The next day Travers made a very early start, and did not return,—as -was often the case,—in time for breakfast; and Nancy and Mayne were -<i>tête-à-tête</i>.</p> - -<p>"Father is so hardy and wiry, and so used to jungle accidents," -she remarked, "he won't ever allow me to look after him properly. -On Tuesday, only for him and his stick," she paused and glanced -expressively at Mayne.</p> - -<p>"Yes, by Jove! the panther would have had me! There's no doubt your -father saved my life. That brute was making for my throat. I saw her -yellow eyes glaring into mine, she had her claws dug into my shoulders, -and, Lord, how her breath smelt! Yes, for once, I was face to face with -death; and I'd be dead and buried <i>now</i>—only for that swinging stroke -across her muzzle."</p> - -<p>"The cubs made her savage," said Nancy. "Tipoo has shot them both—such -well-fed, fat, little creatures. All the family skins are now being -dried. Only for those cubs, the panther would never have faced -you—they are such slinking, treacherous cowards."</p> - -<p>"And only for your father, <i>I'd</i> not be sitting here."</p> - -<p>"And how dreadful for your poor mother, if anything had happened to -you! If I were to die, it would almost kill Daddy."</p> - -<p>Mayne made no reply. Mentally, he was comparing his mother, with her -father. Nancy looked as if she would still be flourishing at the end of -half a century, but if anything were, as she expressed it, "to happen -to her," it was quite possible, that Travers would go clean off his -head.</p> - -<p>Travers returned at tea-time; as he stumbled into the verandah, and -sank exhausted into a chair, he looked completely "done."</p> - -<p>"Ah, I see you have been down to the lower ground," said Nancy. "Now -that was really <i>too</i> bad of you,—when you have a touch of fever."</p> - -<p>As she handed him his cup she added:</p> - -<p>"Let me feel your hand—why, it's almost red-hot!"</p> - -<p>"My dear child, don't make a fuss," he exclaimed irritably; "I'll take -a dose of quinine, and lie down till dinner-time,—will that please -you?"</p> - -<p>Nancy said no more, but shut her lips tightly, and began to prepare his -special buttered toast.</p> - -<p>"I can't touch anything," he protested, "but I've an awful thirst on," -and he swallowed greedily, one after the other, two large cups of tea.</p> - -<p>"I'm afraid I must worry you, dear Daddy, and dress your arm," she -urged. "I promise I'll be as quick as I can," and she led him away to -his own room. Presently she returned, and said to Mayne, who was still -sitting in the verandah: "I want you to ride over at once, and ask Dr. -Hicks to drop in this evening,—quite casually, of course. I simply -dare not tell Daddy I've sent for him; he always pooh-poohs doctors, -and illnesses, and he won't allow me to take his temperature, nor will -he go to bed. His arm has a queer, livid appearance, and is terribly -swollen; I must say, I cannot help feeling rather nervous."</p> - -<p>"Oh, all right," said Mayne, rising; "I'll be off at once, and I'll -bring Hicks back with me,—dead or alive."</p> - -<p>When Mayne arrived at Panora, Dr. Hicks happened to be out, and it -was nine o'clock when the two men reached Fairplains. By this time -Travers, who now admitted that he was "feeling a bit out of sorts," was -obviously worse.</p> - -<p>As they rode over, Mayne had given the doctor full particulars, about -the panther affair,—including the bites, and scratches.</p> - -<p>"There may be poison in them," said Dr. Hicks; "these old panthers eat -garbage, and putrid carcases, and are nasty brutes to deal with; and -if septic poison sets in, Travers is rather a bad subject, and it may -go hard with him. However," he added philosophically, "there is no use -meeting trouble half way, and whatever happens, we must keep a cheerful -face before Nancy. There's a good, single-hearted child, if ever there -was one, and if by any chance, she were to lose her father—mind you, -I'm not saying there <i>is</i> a chance—I don't know what would become of -her!"</p> - -<hr class="chap" /> - -<h2>CHAPTER IX</h2> - -<h3>"GIVE NANCY TO ME!"</h3> - - -<p>Having examined his patient, Dr. Hicks came out into the verandah in -order to confer with Mayne. His face was alarmingly grave, and he spoke -with his eyes anxiously fixed on the communicating doors,—and in a -lowered voice.</p> - -<p>"He's pretty bad; high fever, temperature 104; his arm is frightfully -swelled—it's the bite. I am sending for a nurse and vaccine, also -for my wife. She's uncommonly capable, and always comes well up to -scratch on these occasions, and of course, we must have some woman -here to look after Nancy—in case of"—he hesitated for a second, and -added—"delirium and complications."</p> - -<p>"You don't mean to say it's as serious as all that?" cried Mayne, -aghast.</p> - -<p>"I'm afraid it is; but I'll move heaven and earth to pull Travers -through. We can spare anyone, sooner than the Earl,—as we call him."</p> - -<p>"Can't I go some message, or be of some use? For God's sake give me a -job," and Mayne paused, half choked. "You see, it was through saving -<i>me</i>, that Travers is like this!"</p> - -<p>"Oh, all right," agreed the doctor briskly, "then you can ride down -to Tirraputty, and send off a couple of wires. It will take you about -three hours to get there,—riding hard."</p> - -<p>"What about Mrs. Ffinch's car? I can drive a motor."</p> - -<p>"She's away in it herself!—gone for a week's tour. She took my girl -Jessie, and Nellie Meach, and left no address. 'Expect me when you see -me' style. Ah, here comes Nancy!" as the girl, now looking strangely -worn, and haggard, came into the verandah.</p> - -<p>"What are you two conspiring about?" she asked, with a startled -expression.</p> - -<p>"I'm only telling Mayne a piece of news. Mrs. Ffinch is away on a motor -tour."</p> - -<p>"Oh!"—evidently relieved—"is that all?"</p> - -<p>"Word of honour, yes," the doctor lied with emphasis.</p> - -<p>"Won't you stay and have something?" she urged.</p> - -<p>"Oh, well, I don't mind. Just anything at all—a bit of cold meat, and -a hunch of bread.—I'll ask for a shake-down, too."</p> - -<p>"A shake-down!" staring at him with widely-opened eyes; "then you -think——" and she paused, unable to utter another syllable, or -articulate her heartsick uneasiness.</p> - -<p>"I think you're a silly girl!" he said brusquely. "You know as well as -I do, that I must dress your father's arm every three hours. You'd like -him to have the very best attention, my dear, wouldn't you? It isn't -everyone I'd do as much for. I can tell you,—losing my dinner, and -sleeping out. I'm sending Mayne here to Tirraputty to wire for a nurse."</p> - -<p>"A nurse! Certainly not!" protested Nancy with energy. "<i>I</i> am his -nurse."</p> - -<p>"Now, my good Nancy, if you are going to be silly and obstructive, and -to stand in the way of what is necessary for your father, I'd like to -know what I'm to do with you?"</p> - -<p>"But a nurse—an utter stranger!"</p> - -<p>"Yes, a professional, clear-headed, experienced woman, who has no -emotions—to counteract her work."</p> - -<p>"Father won't have her!!" declared the girl triumphantly.</p> - -<p>"He will, if <i>you</i> ask him," rejoined the doctor. "My dear child, I had -no idea you were so set upon your own way."</p> - -<p>"Then I am to realize that father is—in <i>danger</i>?" she demanded, with -trembling lips.</p> - -<p>"Nothing of the sort," he replied, now lying boldly and well. "You are -to realize that you must be a sensible girl, and instead of fighting -against remedies, and the doctor, to help him with your last breath."</p> - -<p>Nancy gazed at him steadily, and after a moment's silence, she said:</p> - -<p>"All right, you need not ask <i>me</i> to do my best," and she returned to -the sick-room.</p> - -<p>At eight o'clock the following morning, when, stiff and weary, Mayne -dismounted from his cob, he found that a dark cloud had settled down -on Fairplains. In the verandah, he discovered an anxious gathering, -talking together in low voices, and in groups. Here were Ted and Nicky, -Tom Pollard, young Meach—and Mrs. Hicks. They each nodded a welcome, -and the lady advanced, and said:</p> - -<p>"I came over early; he is worse. The fever is septic," she added, and -her round black eyes filled with tears.</p> - -<p>"He is sleeping all right," announced Dr. Hicks, who joined them; -"so is Nancy,—I put something in her tea. She was up all night, -poor child, and is thoroughly worn out. The nurse will be here about -eleven,—and another doctor."</p> - -<p>"It's too awful!" stammered Mayne, who had grown ghastly white. "Do you -know, Mrs. Hicks, that by rights, I should be in Travers' place?"</p> - -<p>"Tut, tut, tut!" she protested, giving him a push; "you go and have a -bath, and some breakfast."</p> - -<p>"Tell me," appealing to her husband, "will he get over it? Is there no -chance?"</p> - -<p>"There may be a turn at sundown, please God."</p> - -<p>"If not——?"</p> - -<p>"These cases last about four days—that brute's claws were so many -poison-bags."</p> - -<p>Without another word, Dr. Hicks turned away.</p> - -<p>At noon, the nurse and specialist, arrived together, and presently -there ensued grave consultations, whisperings, and ominous shaking of -heads.</p> - -<p>On account of its superior size, and in spite of Nancy's frenzied -entreaties, the patient was moved into the drawing-room,—the most -spacious apartment in the bungalow, with a northern aspect.</p> - -<p>Mayne did not venture to speak to Nancy, who looked as if she -scarcely recognized him, when she flitted about like a wraith between -the sick-room, and verandah. Kindly, vulgar Mrs. Hicks, at whom he -used to laugh, was now his support and comfort. She brought him -bulletins, insisted on his taking food, and appeared to keep the -whole establishment together; interviewing callers, writing chits, -dispatching messengers, concocting dainties, and altogether reversing -Mayne's opinion of "silly Mrs. Hicks." For her part, she was sincerely -sorry for this worn, haggard-looking young man, who seemed to dread the -impending tragedy, almost as much as Travers' own daughter.</p> - -<p>Once or twice Mayne had been permitted to stand in the door of the -drawing-room, and there exchange a few words with the patient. Quite -late that evening, when he was disconsolately pacing the avenue, Mrs. -Hicks came out, and joined him.</p> - -<p>"How has he been since sundown?" he inquired.</p> - -<p>"Neither better nor worse. We have sent for Mr. Brownlow, the padre; he -will be here early to-morrow evening. Anyway, he'd have had to come up -for the funeral."</p> - -<p>"The funeral! Oh, good Lord!" exclaimed Mayne in a choked voice, -"surely you are not thinking of <i>that</i>?"</p> - -<p>"Now don't <i>you</i> go and break down, my dear boy," said Mrs. Hicks, -thumping him on the back; "we must all keep up; while there's life -there's hope, and we have to put on a bold face before Nancy. I have -contrived to get her to bed. <i>He</i> sent her. May God forgive me for all -the lies I've told that poor child. If this ends badly, it'll break her -heart. Poor dear! I can't think whatever is to become of her? She won't -have a penny of her own in the wide world,—and there's no relations to -speak of."</p> - -<p>"What—no relations?" repeated Mayne incredulously.</p> - -<p>"None that would come forward, anyhow. Her mother was an orphan, and -Travers' people broke with him; first of all, because he married a -governess, and lastly, because he lost his money. However, if Nancy has -no belongings, she has lots of friends up here; we will all do what we -can. Well now, I see Francis—he wants me," and she hastily abandoned -her companion, leaving him to meditate upon her information.</p> - -<p>Mayne went slowly down to the tennis ground; the tennis ground, -entirely secluded, was a refuge, and here he could hold a long and -uninterrupted conference with himself. Considering the affair from -every point of view, he soon arrived at the conclusion, that <i>he</i> -was solely responsible for Nancy's future. Why should these good, -kind-hearted people offer her a shelter, when he, who was accountable -for a tragedy, that cost her a parent and a home, made no effort to -provide for her?</p> - -<p>During one whole hour, he did a sort of meditative "sentry go" up and -down the kunkur courts. Mrs. Hicks' illuminating remarks, had presented -Nancy's situation, in its true light: the girl had no relations, -no income, and would be entirely dependent on the charity of her -kind-hearted neighbours; and he was answerable for the fact, that she -would be left homeless, and penniless. If her father had not interfered -when the panther attacked him, in another second, the brute would have -torn his throat out—the blow, transferred her fury to Travers. But -for Travers, he would now be lying in a new grave in the garden. The -least he could do, was to provide a home for Travers' daughter—though -nothing could make up to her, for the one she was about to lose. Had -his mother been like the usual run of mothers, Nancy could have lived -with her; unfortunately there were half a dozen "buts," and Lady -Torquilstone abhorred girls.</p> - -<p>There was one alternative;—vainly he thrust this from him; but it -returned again, and yet again, to confront him inflexibly. Yes, he -was powerless against the malignity of events, powerless to evade the -inevitable. <i>He must marry Nancy.</i> It was the only thing to do! He -would thankfully have given her half his income; but, it was not to be -supposed, that she would accept his money; she might look upon it as -the price of blood!</p> - -<p>He liked Nancy, she was a really good sporting sort; straight as a -die, a capital pal; but as a wife—he would not know what to make of -her? She would be such an unlikely and unaccountable Mrs. Mayne. She -looked a mere flapper too, in spite of her eighteen years, and was -occasionally capable of the most startling behaviour. He recalled -the kiss she had offered him on her birthday, and her various tomboy -tricks. What would the regiment think of Nancy? and what would Nancy -think of the regiment?</p> - -<p>After many pacings to and fro, his mind became definitely resolved. -There are moments in the lives of individuals, when their conduct has -to be decided, not by material profit, but by instinctive loyalty to -what is best in their nature; and although marriage was the last step -Mayne had intended to take, nevertheless he determined to adventure the -great plunge! Yes, his decision was unalterably fixed, there was actual -relief in the sensation. He was turning about for the fiftieth time -when he noticed a figure in the moonlight beckoning to him violently -from the top of the steps. It was Mrs. Hicks, who screamed out:</p> - -<p>"So you're down there, are you? I could not find you! Been looking for -you all over the place. He has been asking for you, and the doctors say -you may go in, and stay a quarter of an hour."</p> - -<p>As Mayne entered the sick-room, he noticed even within the last few -hours, a grave change in Travers: a change that was the unmistakable -forerunner of the last change of all. The sick man's face looked drawn, -his sunken eyes extraordinarily bright and restless,—with a sort of -watching expression. There was also some strange element in the room: -something that seemed to be waiting—the silence was pregnant, with -significance.</p> - -<p>"My dear fellow, I'm very glad to see you," Travers began, in a thin -weak voice; "come and sit down. They are making out that I am in a bad -way, and won't allow anyone near me, but Nancy, poor girl. I may pull -through, and I hope I shall, for her sake; she's such a child to be -left all alone to battle with the world."</p> - -<p>"Not alone," said Mayne gravely, "as long as I am to the fore. By -rights I should be lying there instead of you, and if the worst——" He -could not go on.</p> - -<p>"You are very good, my boy! Although I have only known you for six -weeks, I am as fond of you as of an old friend,—and indeed you seem -so. I've never saved money until lately. There will be enough for -Nancy's passage, and perhaps my sister may take the child; she was a -spoiled beauty, and is now, to all accounts, a hard, selfish woman. She -and I have not spoken for twenty years. Still Nancy is her niece—her -only near relative."</p> - -<p>"Look here, sir," interrupted Mayne, "by rights I should be in your -place,—it was all my fault. I was in too great a hurry. I blundered -shockingly when I aimed, so deadly keen to shoot Sam's panther; but -I only enraged her, and made her charge. You knew my father, and are -good enough to say, you like me. I have five hundred a year, besides my -pay—give Nancy into my care. Give Nancy—to <i>me</i>!"</p> - -<p>Travers gazed at him steadily; the sunken dark eyes were interrogative.</p> - -<p>"As my wife, of course," he continued nervously. "I swear to you, that -I'll look upon her as a sacred trust, and do all I can to make her -happy. As it is, we are capital friends; I believe she likes me—and I -am awfully fond of her. We really know one another far better than most -people who marry—having lived here together for the last six weeks. -What do you say?"</p> - -<p>"I am a bit surprised," replied Travers at last: "although the notion -of my little Nance being married seems preposterous, you have lifted a -heavy load off my mind, and God bless you." He put out a burning hand, -which Mayne wrung. Then he added, "But I cannot allow you to talk as if -I had sacrificed myself; it was all in the day's work, the fortune of -war—and—I'll be with my other Nancy before long."</p> - -<p>"May I speak to Nancy?" asked Mayne, after a short silence, "or shall I -wait?"</p> - -<p>"No, I never was a fellow to put off things. I'll see her as soon as -possible,—and look here, Derek," and he gazed up at him appealingly, -"would you think I was rushing you, if I asked you to have the marriage -before I go? Then she will not be left so desolate, my poor little -darling. She will have her natural protector. Do you mind? I know—it -may seem a bit sudden."</p> - -<p>"No," replied Mayne firmly. "I think it will be best. I'll make -arrangements at once."</p> - -<p>"All right, then I'll have a talk to Nancy by and by, and you shall -hear what she says. Of course I know there's never been any sort of -flirting, or love-making between you—she's just a child! but I'd -leave her with a happy mind, if I knew that my little girl was in -the care of a good, honest fellow, like yourself. It will be a queer -coincidence if Derek Mayne's son is to be the husband of my daughter. -The parson will be here to-morrow, and may find two jobs. Ah, Nurse, -all right—I'll stop! No, I've not been doing myself any harm—very -much the other way. Good-night, my boy."</p> - -<hr class="chap" /> - -<h2>CHAPTER X</h2> - -<h3>MARRIAGE AND DEATH</h3> - - -<p>Very early the next morning when Nancy came out of her father's room, -she found Mrs. Hicks already in the verandah, wrapped in a flaming -kimona, and sipping a cup of tea.</p> - -<p>"Well, dear child?" she began, then paused, and looked at her -interrogatively.</p> - -<p>"Daddy has been talking to me," she announced in a dull voice, staring -at Mrs. Hicks with a curious dazed expression, "and—he—he wishes -me—to marry Captain Mayne."</p> - -<p>"Lors!" exclaimed her companion, jumping to her feet. "Whatever for?"</p> - -<p>"Because I'm so alone in the world, and have no home!" replied the -girl, as if she was repeating a lesson.</p> - -<p>"And what does the Captain say?"</p> - -<p>"He wishes it too."</p> - -<p>"And what do <i>you</i> say, Ducky?"</p> - -<p>"Oh," with a frantic gesture of her hand, "is it any matter about <i>me</i>? -Don't you know, that I would kill myself, that I would be cut in little -pieces, if it would give any relief to Daddy,—and I am the one <i>thing</i> -that seems to trouble him."</p> - -<p>"Well, I won't say that it isn't a wise plan!" declared Mrs. Hicks, -folding her fat arms in her kimona; "the Captain is a fine young -fellow, and has everyone's good word,—even Mrs. Pollard, and you know -how she takes a bit out of people. But still, if you don't really fancy -him, dearie, I <i>wouldn't</i>. Marriage," now sitting down, "is a big -affair, not to be settled at a moment's notice, like a game of tennis. -This Mayne, they say, has high and mighty relations, and I don't -believe there's ever been a word of love talk between you—much less a -kiss."</p> - -<p>Nancy made a movement of fierce repudiation.</p> - -<p>"And from something Mrs. F. dropped," resumed Mrs. Hicks, "I know she -has her plans for you—as well as others."</p> - -<p>"Don't!" cried the girl. "Don't talk of plans, and schemes—it's this -very second that counts. I shall do whatever pleases Daddy—and I'm -going to speak to Captain Mayne now."</p> - -<p>"Well, maybe it's all for the best! Anyhow, it'll be a wonderful ease -to your poor father. God help you, my child!"</p> - -<p>"They wish the marriage to take place to-morrow," said Nancy, and her -lips twitched visibly as she added—"when Mr. Brownlow comes."</p> - -<p>"Well I <i>never</i>!" ejaculated Mrs. Hicks, and her round ruddy face -assumed an awestruck expression, "but there's sense in that too. If it -was put off, and you were to go home, things might happen. Some young -men are as slippery as eels. Mind you, I'm not saying one word against -Mayne; he doesn't seem that sort—his mouth has a tight look. Still, -one of you might be talked out of it—like my own Jessie."</p> - -<p>During this oration, Nancy's face had become as rigid and set as that -of a waxen mask, suddenly laying her hand on Mrs. Hicks' arm, she said:</p> - -<p>"If father dies, I don't care <i>what</i> becomes of me! I only hope and -pray, I may not live long. I'll do anything he asks for now,—fancy -the horror that would haunt me,—if I were to say no, to his very last -wishes!"</p> - -<p>"Nancy, child, if you could only cry, it would be such a wonderful -relief to your poor heart. Lors, here is Mayne coming! Maybe you'd -better take him into the Den, and talk it out face to face."</p> - -<p>"You know all about it, Nancy," he began, when she beckoned him to -follow her into the little room, where both had spent such pleasant -hours.</p> - -<p>She nodded assent. Within the last three days the girl appeared to have -undergone an extraordinary change; the childish air had vanished; her -face was shrunken, and drawn, all life and spontaneity had departed. -She wore a long white peignoir, which gave her height and dignity, and -looked years older—in short, it was another personality.</p> - -<p>"You know I'm awfully fond of you, Nance," continued Mayne, stooping -to take a cold, limp hand, "and that I'll do my very best to make you -happy."</p> - -<p>"<i>Happy!</i>" and she dashed his hand aside, "as if I could <i>ever</i> be -happy again!"</p> - -<p>"You will, by and by," he went on steadily, unmoved by her outburst; -"we shall settle down; you will get used to soldiering—and this awful -time will be as a bad dream."</p> - -<p>"Never," rejoined Nancy with emphasis. "Bad dreams are forgotten. -Do you imagine, that I shall ever forget <i>this</i>?" and she stared at -him with a pair of tearless, glittering eyes. Then there ensued a -long, expressive, and uncomfortable pause, during which Togo trotted -in, and gazed at the couple. They seemed so odd,—almost like two -strangers: the girl sitting by the closed piano, the man with his hands -in his pockets, standing with his back to the wall. After a moment's -hesitation, and bewilderment, Togo trotted out.</p> - -<p>"Well, Nancy, what do you think?" inquired Mayne at last.</p> - -<p>"I'll do anything father wishes—anything to make him at ease. They -say," and she choked, then continued in a hard, metallic voice, "he has -only two days to live."</p> - -<p>"I wish to God it had been me instead," burst out Mayne.</p> - -<p>"So do I," agreed Nancy, with pitiless fervour, and something wild, and -hostile, looked out of her eyes as she added, "and only for Daddy, it -<i>would</i> have been you."</p> - -<p>"That is true; he gave his life for mine."</p> - -<p>"And," said the girl, rising as she spoke, "I am to give mine to you; -well, since he wishes it, you may take it!"</p> - -<p>Without another word or glance, she turned her back upon Mayne, and -departed to her post in the sick-room.</p> - -<hr class="tb" /> - -<p>During all this time, Mrs. Hicks, as her husband had boasted, came well -to the fore. Apparently accustomed to sickness, and death, she was -surprisingly energetic and practical, altogether a saner, more subdued, -and silent, Mrs. Hicks.</p> - -<p>The doctor's verdict had now gone forth, and the whole establishment -was figuratively clothed in sackcloth and ashes. Neighbours from far -and near crowded the verandah; melancholy and dejected, these awaited -bulletins, and in some cases, farewell interview with their dying -friend.</p> - -<p>Nancy never appeared among the callers,—everything remained in the -hands of Dr. and Mrs. Hicks. When a visitor entered the sick-room, -she noiselessly slipped away, but at other times, Travers' dog, and -Travers' daughter, were his chief companions.</p> - -<p>The grim drawing-room had been completely altered to suit its present -use. Most of the hateful black furniture was piled up behind the -screen! A small camp bed, a long arm-chair, and a round table occupied -the middle of the apartment. On the latter, a few books, photographs, -and odds and ends—Travers' poor treasures—had been hastily collected.</p> - -<p>The sick man was not in bed, but reclined in the long chair wrapped -in his dressing-gown,—with death in his face, a stout heart in his -breast,—the only cheerful inmate in Fairplains. His left arm and -hand were terribly swollen. With his right he had written a few lines -to his sister, and to Fletcher.—Short notes enclosed and addressed -by Nancy.—Also he had made his will, and given her many directions, -and much advice; to all of which the girl had listened with immovable -composure—knowing that to break down would be terribly distressing to -her father—who, with extraordinary fortitude, now calmly awaited the -end.</p> - -<p>The following morning Mr. Brownlow arrived, and was hospitably -entertained by Mrs. Hicks. To his immense surprise, the wire which -summoned him, had invited him not only to visit a sick friend, but to -prepare for the solemnization of a marriage, and his amazement was not -lessened, when informed that Travers' little Nancy was to be the bride!</p> - -<p>A lengthy interview with the dying man was interrupted by Mrs. Hicks, -who entered the drawing-room, bearing in either hand a large vase -of white lilies—a signal for the wedding ceremony. Presently Mayne -appeared in his Sunday suit, prayer-book in hand, followed by Dr. -Hicks, Ted Dawson, and, by special desire, Francis, a Catholic. The -last to arrive was Nancy wearing a fresh white linen frock. Then the -doors were closed, and after a little confidential discussion, and -whispering, the ceremony commenced.</p> - -<p>The couple about to be married, took their places before Mr. -Brownlow,—who used an old prie-dieu as desk.—Nancy stood as close as -possible to her father, who, at the question, "Who giveth this woman to -be married to this man?" in a firm, loud voice, answered, "I do."</p> - -<p>Accordingly "Eleanora Nancy" was married (with her mother's -wedding-ring) to "Derek Danvers Mayne." The bridegroom appeared grave -and anxious, the bride looked like an automaton, going through a -mechanical performance, for which she had been carefully wound up.</p> - -<p>When the Service was ended, the certificate duly signed, and witnessed, -there was a celebration of the Holy Communion, and the little gathering -retired.</p> - -<p>It was an ominous fact, that as soon as she found herself alone, the -first thing that the bride did, was to tear off her wedding-ring, -and lock it away. It had been decided by Mayne and Travers, that the -marriage was to be kept secret, at least until after the funeral, and -everything went on precisely as if it had not taken place.</p> - -<p>With regard to the funeral, the presence of Mr. Brownlow awaiting the -occasion for his services, seemed to Nancy, Mayne, and others, a most -hideous and heartrending necessity: Laurence Travers was still in the -land of the living, and here was his friend Brownlow, waiting on at -Fairplains,—as all the world was aware,—in order to read the funeral -service over his dead body!</p> - -<p>Nancy and Mayne encountered one another in the sick-room and at -meals,—for Mrs. Hicks was inflexible with regard to food. She scolded -vigorously, in a subdued voice, when the girl refused to eat; demanding -to know, what was the good of her starving herself, and of being laid -up, and no use to anyone?</p> - -<p>Nancy rarely opened her lips, the dread of her impending bereavement -was beyond words. She had lost much of her deep tan colour, and looked -pinched, and haggard; it was a young face, aged and racked with -torture, yet so far, she had not shed one single tear. On the contrary, -her eyes had a fixed glassy stare, like those of a wax doll.</p> - -<p>"Feed her up, and keep her going!" was Dr. Hicks' counsel to the -newly-wed bridegroom. "The girl is so unnaturally restrained, that I'm -afraid of some sort of a bad collapse."</p> - -<p>But whenever Mayne urged Nancy to rest, or to spare herself, he was -met with an impatient shrug, or a brusque refusal; and realized the -uncomfortable fact, that she rarely spoke to, or looked at him, of her -own accord; but naturally every precious moment was devoted to her -dying father.</p> - -<p>Travers' slight recovery on the day of the wedding was followed that -night by a grave relapse, turning to delirium, finally coma; and the -following day, he passed away at sunset. The prayers for the dying -offered by Mr. Brownlow were almost drowned in the clanging of the -coolies' gong. Their task for the day was over—and Travers' life's -work ended at the same hour.</p> - -<p>That night the bungalow itself was silent as a tomb, but the peaceful -repose was broken by the weird death wail in the go-downs and coolies' -quarters.</p> - -<p>The funeral was immense. People from great distances, hills and plains -alike, flocked to pay the last tribute to an old friend.—Laurence -Travers had been in Coffee for twenty-five years.</p> - -<p>Among the most prominent mourners were Mr. and Mrs. Ffinch; she had -only returned home that morning, and was shocked by the news which -assailed her, almost before she had set foot in her house. Having been -beyond the reach of letters, this was the first that she had heard, -even of Travers' illness: and the sudden announcement of his death, was -a stunning blow. Although tired, and inclined to be hysterical, she -pulled herself together with a great effort in order to accompany her -husband to Fairplains.</p> - -<p>During the Burial Service many of the women wept. Nancy never shed a -tear, but stood by the grave-side like a graven image in white stone. -Afterwards, she fled away to her room, where she locked herself in; -refusing admittance to all,—even deaf to the beseeching of her own -dearest, and broken-hearted, "Finchie."</p> - -<p>Truly these were really miserable days for Derek Mayne! who weighed -down by the loss of a good friend, and his own share in the tragedy, -had now added to his trouble, a wife who undoubtedly <i>hated</i> him! He -read this fact in her dull, but still expressive eyes. She avoided him -pointedly; even at the funeral, she had moved from his side in order to -stand by Mrs. Ffinch; and once, when he had made an attempt to offer -consolation and a caress, she had looked at him so fiercely; almost as -if she could have struck him! Of course the miserable child was nearly -off her head—and no wonder; but this was not an encouraging beginning -for a life-long partnership!</p> - -<p>His leave would be up in three days, and what then? The estate must be -taken in hand at once: Ted and Nicky were working it at present, like -the good fellows that they were, but a capable manager who could live -on the spot, was in this, the busiest season, absolutely essential.</p> - -<p>In the East, events march with amazing speed; as one man falls, another -fills his place—and so the world rolls on. Almost everything at -Fairplains, except such matters as books, guns, a few pieces of old -china and silver, belonged, as Travers had once expressed it, "lock, -stock and barrel" to Tom Fletcher; so the personal estate was easily -wound up. The assets were small; but on the other hand—there were no -debts.</p> - -<p>Dr. Hicks had taken his departure, but his good, capable wife still -remained in charge of Nancy, and the household. Mayne and she dined -<i>tête-à-tête</i>; and somehow in her brusque matter-of-fact way, she -cheered him: she talked of Nancy as "a darling; a girl with a heart of -gold, who, when she had found her breath again, after such a terrible -experience, would make him the best of wives, and was fit for any -society."</p> - -<p>"You only saw the jungle side," she explained, "but I can tell you, -that Miss Nancy is accomplished; she can play the piano, and sing and -dance as well as the best of your tip-toppers; she didn't waste her -time at school, you bet! She cost Laurence Travers about two hundred a -year, he never spared any expense upon his girl—we all know that."</p> - -<p>When Mrs. Hicks had withdrawn—she was an early to bed lady—Mayne -wandered about alone in the bright moonlight, thinking sorrowfully of -the dead man.</p> - -<p>Was it but a week ago, when they two, discussing a question of European -politics, had paced this very path, and since then, his companion had -set out for the undiscovered country? It seemed incredible.</p> - -<p>By and by he went and stood by the newly made grave; something was -lying across it, crushing all the beautiful wreaths and flowers. What -was it? On nearer inspection it proved to be Togo; who recognized his -disturber with a threatening growl.</p> - -<p>From the grave Mayne returned to the bungalow, and sat for a long time -alone in the empty verandah—what a change was here! The merry voices, -and the laughing that filled it a week ago, already belonged to the -past; every door stood wide, and a chill death-like stillness pervaded -the premises. Even in the servants' quarters—what a singular absence -of sound!</p> - -<p>All at once a wholly inexplicable impulse impelled Mayne to enter -the room where Travers had breathed his last; the corners looked -mysteriously, and forbiddingly dark; but in the centre, where the -moonlight streamed,—it was as light as day. The little iron cot -had been neatly made up, in the long chair—Mayne started, the moon -discovered a prone figure—Nancy! with her head buried among the -cushions; and something in the absolute abandonment of her limp and -lifeless attitude, brought to his mind the picture of a dead white bird.</p> - -<p>He stole away, noiseless as a shadow, with these two scenes indelibly -fixed upon his memory; Togo, keeping watch and ward over the grave, -Nancy prostrate in the death chamber. Surely few men had ever awakened -such profound grief, as Laurence Travers.</p> - -<hr class="chap" /> - -<h2>CHAPTER XI</h2> - -<h3>MRS. FFINCH INTERVENES</h3> - - -<p>The Honourable Mrs. Ffinch was not merely the happy possessor of -an energetic mind, but of an elastic physique. As soon as she had -recovered from the shock of Travers' death, heart and soul she set -about arranging his affairs—naturally beginning with his orphan -daughter!</p> - -<p>Accordingly the afternoon after the funeral, the Clouds Rest car -once more glided up to Fairplains. On this occasion the visitor was -immediately admitted to see Nancy; who thanks to Mrs. Hicks' almost -violent insistence, had rested and eaten a mid-day meal. The white and -tearless girl submitted very patiently to her friend's caresses and -condolence. At last Mrs. Ffinch released her, and sat down,—still -holding her hand, as if she feared her escape,—began to talk to her -most seriously.</p> - -<p>"Well, my dear child, I've settled everything! your room at Clouds Rest -is ready, the Dirzee is waiting to fit your mourning, and I have come -to fetch you away,—for I don't intend to leave you another day with -Mrs. Hicks."</p> - -<p>"She has been so very, very kind," murmured Nancy, "I don't know what I -should have done without her."</p> - -<p>The visitor dismissed this statement, with an impatient gesture, as she -resumed:</p> - -<p>"And there's Captain Mayne! What is <i>he</i> waiting for?"</p> - -<p>"I suppose he is waiting for <i>me</i>," was the unexpected reply.</p> - -<p>Mrs. Ffinch's large thin-lipped mouth opened, but no words came forth, -she merely gaped upon her young friend.</p> - -<p>"We were married on Friday," calmly announced the bride.</p> - -<p>"You were—<i>what</i>?" cried Mrs. Ffinch, hastily rising and towering over -the speaker.</p> - -<p>"Married—married in the drawing-room here. Father wished it."</p> - -<p>"And <i>you</i>?" demanded her breathless inquisitor.</p> - -<p>"Oh no."</p> - -<p>Here, within a few hours, was the second shock which Mrs. Ffinch had -sustained. To return to a hum-drum neighbourhood, after merely a week's -absence, and to find awaiting her, not only a sudden death, but a -sudden, amazing, and crazy marriage! Her head felt swimming; yet such -was the lady's ruling passion and ardour for managing, that even this -unparalleled situation, presented its compensations! With admirable -persistence and patience, she succeeded in dragging some facts from her -half-stunned and apathetic companion; and when all was made clear, she -said:</p> - -<p>"Fancy! of all people in the world—you and Derek Mayne! Such a -hopelessly unsuitable couple to be chained together for life! <i>What</i> -have you in common?"</p> - -<p>Nancy shook her head. She was not in a frame of mind to furnish either -reasons, or arguments.</p> - -<p>"Nothing whatever," resumed Mrs. Ffinch, answering her own question. -"Certainly not sport—you merely went shooting, so as to be with your -Daddy: you know you hate killing things; you and Mayne agreed to -sacrifice yourselves, just to give that poor fellow an easy mind. My -dear, have you thought of the future?"</p> - -<p>Nancy made no reply, her eyes were fastened on the corner of the room. -Undoubtedly her thoughts were miles away from her companion.</p> - -<p>"Has Captain Mayne any plans? Come, come, Nancy, don't look so dull, -and dazed."</p> - -<p>"I don't know."</p> - -<p>"Don't know," repeated her friend, in a tone of exasperation. "My dear -good child, do try and rouse yourself, and think."</p> - -<p>"I think," said the girl, speaking very deliberately and as if talking -was an immense effort, "that he is going away the day after to-morrow."</p> - -<p>"And you too?"</p> - -<p>"I suppose so," assented the bride, in a tone of stolid indifference.</p> - -<p>"Good heavens—you 'suppose,' and you 'don't know.' Have you talked it -over together?"</p> - -<p>"No," was the whispered reply.</p> - -<p>Mrs. Ffinch threw up her shapely hands with a gesture of despair.</p> - -<p>"This private marriage has taken place simply because your father saved -your husband's life."</p> - -<p>"Don't call him my husband!" burst out Nancy, with a lightning flash of -her former self.</p> - -<p>"Well, dear, I won't, if you don't like it. Your poor Daddy has left -you alone—and from what I hear—almost penniless."</p> - -<p>These were hard words, and facts; but the Honourable Julia Ffinch never -flinched from the plainest of plain-speaking.</p> - -<p>"And Mayne naturally feels bound in honour to provide for you."</p> - -<p>An expressive silence followed this bald statement.</p> - -<p>"Dear me, how you do stare, child! You know, I'm fond of you, Nancy, -darling, and I'm most frightfully upset about all this terrible -trouble; but just at the moment, I want to put my own feelings -<i>entirely</i> aside, and try and act for your benefit. I had no idea, that -we were in the least likely to lose you, or that you were on the brink -of such an <i>awful</i> leap in the dark. There's no time to be lost; now -is the moment for action. I shall go and have a good square talk with -Captain Mayne. I see him wandering about outside, looking for all the -world as if he were a lost dog."</p> - -<p>As Mrs. Ffinch stepped down from the verandah to accost him, her first -words were:</p> - -<p>"So you and Nancy are married!"</p> - -<p>"Yes," he replied. "Don't you approve?"</p> - -<p>"I am simply horrified," she answered, with deliberate emphasis. "Yes, -I <i>am</i>."</p> - -<p>"But why?" he asked. "It was quite a sound thing to do."</p> - -<p>"Only for the circumstances of the case, neither of you would ever have -dreamt of such a mad proceeding. Come, would you—honour bright?"</p> - -<p>"Well, I don't suppose we should," he admitted reluctantly.</p> - -<p>"Now look here, Captain Mayne," turning to pace beside him. "I -must speak my mind. You don't care a pin for one another. Nancy is -a mere child of freedom, a child still in many ways, and totally -inexperienced; you spend your life in military harness. What will -become of her as a regimental lady?"</p> - -<p>Mayne coloured, and gave a short uneasy laugh.</p> - -<p>"Oh, she'll be all right, I daresay."</p> - -<p>"Why, only the other day you solemnly assured me, that you wouldn't -marry for years—if ever. I remember you quoted Kipling, 'He travels -fastest, who travels alone.'"</p> - -<p>"That's true," he admitted, "but unexpected things happen. One never -can tell. I daresay Nancy and I will worry along as well as other -people."</p> - -<p>"What a nice, cheerful way of looking at it," exclaimed Mrs. Ffinch.</p> - -<p>"Well, of course we have made an awkward sort of start; and at present -Nancy, who used to be my best friend, cannot endure me in her sight. -I shall let her have everything her own way—anyhow for a time—for I -can thoroughly understand her feelings. Only for <i>me</i>, her father might -be here talking to you at this moment. However, I intend to do my big -best. Perhaps once Nancy has left these surroundings, she may not take -things so desperately hard. Our Colonel's wife is a rare good sort, and -will mother her; and I'll bring along the old ayah, the pony, and the -dog, so that she won't feel altogether too strange. I must go down the -day after to-morrow; and there are lots of things to settle up before -that."</p> - -<p>"You will come over, and say good-bye to us, won't you? Hector would -like to see you, to talk business. He is arranging for a temporary -manager until he hears from Mr. Fletcher. He sent him a cable -yesterday."</p> - -<p>After a little conversation respecting the new manager, and the -winding-up of the household, Mrs. Ffinch returned to Nancy, whom she -found precisely as she had left her, sitting with clasped hands, and -downcast eyes, staring hard at the floor.</p> - -<p>"Come, come, my dear!" she protested briskly, "try and put away your -grief for a few minutes, and listen to me,—for I'm going to talk to -you, for your life-long good."</p> - -<p>Nancy raised herself with an effort, and gazed at her adviser with a -pair of large, lack-lustre, eyes.</p> - -<p>"Nancy, I have come to the conclusion, that you and Captain Mayne can -never be happy together. He is not one bit in love—I suppose you -realize <i>that</i>. He married you simply to fulfil what he considered -a duty,—the payment of an enormous debt! He belongs to a totally -different class—County people. I know his uncle—and I know his -mother—an odious, overbearing, cat! A super cat! I daresay you are -just as well born, but you will find that between you, and his people, -a great gulf is fixed. They will forget the true reason for the match, -and declare that he has been 'run in.' He has assured me more than once -that he had no intention of marrying; and is excessively anxious to -get on in his profession. I remember him saying that his sword was is -helpmate, and I know from my own experience, that an officer hampered -by a wife with no fortune, no helpful connections, is <i>too</i> heavily -weighted."</p> - -<p>"Then what do you advise me to do?" murmured Nancy, almost inaudibly.</p> - -<p>"Remain with me at Clouds Rest, and let him return to Cananore alone. -Leave details to <i>me</i>; I can arrange everything,—I shall love doing -it! Scarcely a soul knows of the ceremony, and we shall keep it dark. -When once you are comfortably established with us, you shall write to -Captain Mayne, and tell him that he is absolutely released."</p> - -<p>"But will it not be breaking a promise to father?" and Nancy rose -out of her chair, and stood before her adviser, a limp, and dejected -figure—an almost unrecognizable Nancy!</p> - -<p>"No, my dearest child; you know, as well as I do, that your Daddy's -sole idea was for your <i>happiness</i>. This scrambled up 'shilling -shocker' affair would be for your <i>misery</i>."</p> - -<p>Mrs. Ffinch waxed eloquent. She warmed with her subject; excitement, -and enthusiasm carried to her feet, and she stalked about the room, -declaiming with both hands. On more than one occasion, she had made a -marriage; here was a notable opportunity to break one! This idea, to -do her justice, was not the sole cause of her energetic intervention. -Nancy, more dead than alive, had apparently no interest in her future; -and was willing to drift wherever a miserable fate would take her; but -Julia Ffinch was not the woman to suffer a favourite puppet to be lost -to her in such a fashion! Nancy should have another chance, recover her -health, and spirits at Clouds Rest—and let Captain Mayne go his own -way.</p> - -<p>Mrs. Ffinch had mapped out Nancy's future with a bewildering -thoroughness, and continued her exposition, and arguments with unabated -zeal. As for Captain Mayne, he would thankfully snatch at such a chance -of liberty; for never had she seen a young man so alarmingly altered, -and depressed.</p> - -<p>"If you and Captain Mayne stick to one another, it will be," she -announced, "a deplorable calamity for both,—and his professional -ruin. If either of you were in love, of course I would not say a -word; but this is really <i>too</i> cold-blooded! Mayne married you to -pay the price for his life—you married him—because your father was -naturally anxious to see you provided for; there is the whole affair in -a nutshell," extending two expressive hands, "and in my opinion, the -kernel is rotten!</p> - -<p>"If I had been at home, this preposterous ceremony would never have -taken place. Thank goodness, it can be hushed up, and smothered -here—among the coffee bushes. Should it ever try to come to life, -the marriage must be annulled. As far as witnesses are concerned, -there will be <i>no</i> difficulty. Doctor and Mrs. Hicks won't talk; and -Mr. Brownlow is about to settle in Tasmania. You will come and live -with me, and be my daughter," then with a cautious afterthought, "at -any rate for the present. As for Captain Mayne, he will rejoin his -regiment, and there won't be a whisper! He is coming over to-morrow -to Clouds Rest. I'll have a serious interview with him, and tell him -that he must really leave you with <i>me</i>. I know he will jump at the -offer, and be only too thankful to go off alone. Then as soon as he has -cleared out, you and I will put our heads together, and write him such -a clear, decisive letter, and put the matter so effectively, that he -will withdraw all claim."</p> - -<p>Here Mrs. Ffinch paused, a little out of breath from this long oration, -and surveyed her companion judicially.</p> - -<p>"Now what do you say, Nancy? Take your choice? Will you come to -<i>me</i>?—or go to <i>him</i>?"</p> - -<p>"I hate him!" was the startling rejoinder.</p> - -<p>"Ah, so I see you've made up your mind! Then the day after to-morrow, -I'll fetch you; I shall tell your ayah to put your things together. -I've given you the big room—so that you can have all your own -particular belongings round you—and I've ordered lots of mourning -paper. Well now, good-bye my own darling, don't think <i>too</i> much; don't -let Mrs. Hicks worry you, and don't see more of <i>him</i> than you can -help," and she nodded her head expressively.</p> - -<p>Then Mrs. Ffinch went forth, and was ceremoniously conducted to her -car by Captain Mayne, who, as he walked beside her, dropping a casual -"yes" or "no," little dreamt of the scheme that was maturing in his -companion's ever active brain.</p> - -<hr class="chap" /> - -<h2>CHAPTER XII</h2> - -<h3>"EXIT NANCY"</h3> - - -<p>It was after sundown, when Nancy's eloquent visitor had taken a -prolonged farewell, and a reluctant departure. She was immediately -succeeded by Mrs. Hicks, charged with cheerful talk, anxious -interrogations and an enticing description of the forthcoming dinner; -nevertheless, the girl declared that she felt dead tired, and would -rather not appear, but have something sent in to her on a tray.</p> - -<p>As soon as the servants' voices, and the clatter of plates, assured -her that the meal was in active progress, Nancy slipped out, and stole -down to the tennis ground, in order to breathe a little fresh air, and -secure an uninterrupted think. The tennis ground was the most secluded -resort about the premises,—being sunken in the hillside, and invisible -from the bungalow. It was a pregnant coincidence, that the recently -married couple had each sought the same sanctuary!</p> - -<p>Nancy paced slowly to and fro; the agony of apprehension, and the -tension of a desperate hope, had come to an end. She was turning over -in her mind the various statements that Mrs. Ffinch had so frankly -disclosed. One or two stark-naked facts boldly presented themselves. -Fact number one: Captain Mayne had married her for no other reason, -than to discharge a debt, and to give her his protection, and a -home. This plain and odious truth, was unbearable. Once upon a -time—indeed only a week ago—she had liked Captain Mayne so much; -but now her feelings had undergone a sharp change, and all she -felt for him, was shuddering aversion. Yesterday, when he had put -his hand on her shoulder, she had felt inclined to scream! It was -undeniable—proclaimed another stout fact—that she had assented to the -marriage; but if it was ruinous to Captain Mayne, abhorrent to herself, -and unfair to them both,—<i>why</i> hold to it?</p> - -<p>Another glaring truth revealed, that she was absolutely -homeless—unless she followed her fate to Cananore, or accepted what -was neither more nor less than Mrs. Ffinch's charity! Surely there must -be a third alternative? For the last eighteen months, she had held the -purse-strings, and saved her Daddy many rupees, and after the servants' -wages and other expenses were settled, there remained sufficient money -to pay her passage home, and leave a margin of about twenty pounds.</p> - -<p>She would go straight to her old school at Eastbourne: Mrs. -Beccles—who had always been her friend—would no doubt allow her to -remain there for a week or two, and assist her to find a situation -as companion, or governess. She was determined not to be carried off -to Clouds Rest; there, to become a pensioner, and non-paying guest. -She was really fond of Finchie, who was immensely kind, and generous; -but Finchie had more than once openly lamented, that "she so soon got -tired of people!" What if she grew tired of her? As Nancy cast her -thoughts back, she recalled the reigns of Blanche Meach; of Nicky Byng; -of Jessie; and there was no denying the fact that at the moment, she -herself was the official favourite. Even if she went to Clouds Rest for -a few weeks,—it would be only to prolong the present agony, and defer -a crisis.</p> - -<p>To remain in the neighbourhood of Fairplains, where she and her father -had been so supremely happy; with strangers occupying their rooms, -riding their ponies, playing on this very tennis ground,—no, never! -And then all the talk and commiseration, although so kindly meant, -would drive her crazy! There was a loop-hole of escape overlooked by -Mrs. Ffinch. She would go down to her old nurse, Jane Simpson, at -Coimbatore, and start to-morrow night, leaving two letters, one for -Captain Mayne, and one for Finchie. Finchie would be furious; she could -almost see her face, after she had read and digested her leave-taking -epistle! But, after all, she must live her own life, such as it was; -and go her own way. What she did, or where she went, was of little -matter to anyone. Nurse Jane would not worry her with plans, and -questions—she understood; she always did; and later on, when she felt -stronger, not so queer, and dazed, and the monsoon was over, she would -go home—that is to say, to England.</p> - -<p>As Nancy made up her mind to this plan, she beheld Togo coming slowly -down the steps, and looking about cautiously. Catching sight of the -object of his quest, he flew to her side.</p> - -<p>"So you were afraid we were <i>all</i> gone, dear, were you?" and she lifted -him,—a heavy armful,—sat down, and placed him on the bench beside -her. Togo endeavoured to make frantic demonstrations of affection,—but -was firmly restrained. His mistress held him fast with her arm round -his neck, and there the two sat, and gazed on the moon-flooded -plains,—an exquisite scene in silver. It all looked so still, so calm, -and in a word, so heavenly. "Oh, Togo," she murmured. "The world is the -same, but everything in it, is changed for you—and me."</p> - -<p>Suddenly something in Nancy's throat seemed to give way, and she -buried her face in Togo's woolly neck; the ice had melted, and for -the first time, she wept,—but not for long. In a surprisingly short -time, she choked back her sobs—and with a supreme effort recovered -her composure, restrained her streaming tears, as she had done Togo's -caresses,—and administering a kiss in the middle of his forehead, rose -and returned to the bungalow,—stealing into her own quarters almost -like a thief.</p> - -<p>Manœuvring among the shadows, she had caught a glimpse of Mrs. Hicks -and Captain Mayne smoking together on the verandah. What good friends -they seemed to be! In her room she found awaiting her, a dainty -little meal (now cold), and offered it to Togo. As a rule the dog -had a healthy and unfastidious appetite, but to-night, he merely -sniffed at the plate, and turned sorrowfully away. To avoid a scene of -recrimination, and remonstrance, Nancy gulped down some cold soup, and -ordered the ayah to remove the tray, "quick, quick, quick," and when -Mrs. Hicks had gone to bed, to send Francis to speak to her.</p> - -<p>Sounds in the still hill regions carry far, and the Clouds Rest "gurra" -would be heard striking ten faint strokes, when Francis appeared in the -doorway. Salaaming with grave dignity, he awaited Nancy's commands.</p> - -<p>"Francis," she said, "you have known me as a baba, and have always been -good to me."</p> - -<p>"No, no," he protested, "Missy good to me."</p> - -<p>"Yes, you have," she contradicted flatly, "and you know it, -Francis—and I want you to help me now."</p> - -<p>"Whatever the Missy says, that I do," and once more he salaamed with -both hands.</p> - -<p>"Well, I want you to do a good deal! You know that I was married by the -Padre Sahib, because my father wished it, and I was thankful to please -him, but it is not a good marriage; and I do not intend to leave here -with the Captain Sahib on Wednesday, but will go down to Nurse Jane at -Coimbatore instead—and you must manage it."</p> - -<p>"Nurse Jane, Missy," he repeated, "but for why? That very, awfully -foolish business. The Captain Sahib very nice gentleman. Master like -him,—everyone too much like him."</p> - -<p>"And I," pointing to herself, "do <i>not</i> like him! Francis, can you -understand?" and she gazed at him steadily.</p> - -<p>Francis made no answer, but looked down, and gravely contemplated his -flexible brown toes.</p> - -<p>"Listen to me," she continued, "to-morrow night, I am leaving -Fairplains; you will get a bandy, and coolies, for the luggage, and the -ayah; also I am taking Togo. If I return to England, he shall be in -your keeping. At present, he and I, comfort one another. I will ride -the grey pony down the ghât, and Tumbie syce can attend, and bring him -back. Later, all my belongings are to be sent to Coimbatore. Do you -bring them yourself. I shall have much to say to you—to-night it -hurts me to talk."</p> - -<p>"May I speak one word, Missy? Now you are married to this gentleman -Captain,—suppose you run away, he making plenty bobbery; he not -swearing or calling names, that gentleman I know. All the same, I think -he is strong,—and there will be much trouble."</p> - -<p>"It will be all right, Francis; you need not be afraid. I shall give -you a letter for him, and he will be <i>glad</i> to let me go,—and never -see me again."</p> - -<p>Francis made a noise like "tch, tch, tch." "Oh, Missy, already have we -got too much sorrow—will you thrust more upon us—and yourself——?"</p> - -<p>"More—sorrow—we could not have," declared his reckless young -mistress. "Now for my plans," she continued.</p> - -<p>"I want you to send a coolie with a telegram to prepare Nurse Jane. I -shall remain in this room to-morrow; sick—and I <i>am</i> sick—and I wish -I was dead! At night, when all is still, I intend to ride away down to -the railway station. Francis, it is for you to make all the bandobast. -I know you will help me. Good-night," and he was dismissed.</p> - -<p>By the first streak of dawn, the next morning, Nancy crept out to -visit, for the last time, the newest grave. She was so early that no -one beheld her, but the birds, and Togo.</p> - -<p>During the long hours when Mrs. Hicks was busily engaged in counting -glass, china, and cooking pots (for the inventory), or reposing on her -beloved bed, Nancy and her ayah were occupied in making final, but -secret arrangements. When these were completed, Nancy sat down and -wrote two letters. The first was to Mrs. Ffinch,—and began:</p> - -<div class="blockquot"> - -<p><span class="smcap">Dear kind Finchie</span>,</p> - -<p>This is to say, that I am going my own way. Please do not be vexed. -You will hear of me at my nurse's in Coimbatore. I feel somehow that -I want her, as when I was a small kid, and had had a bad fall; later, -I hope to go to England; for much as I adore the hills, I cannot -endure them just now. Give my love to all my friends, and please <i>do</i> -understand, that I am most grateful to you for your kind offer, to -have me with you at Clouds Rest,—and forgive,</p> - -<p class="ph1">Your loving,<br /> -<span class="smcap">Nancy</span>.</p></div> - -<p>Having completed and addressed this, she sat for a long time with -a sheet of note-paper before her, resting her head upon her hand, -nibbling the penholder, and making up her mind how to frame a letter to -Captain Mayne. At last she began, and wrote—rapidly, almost without a -pause:</p> - -<div class="blockquot"> - -<p><span class="smcap">Dear Captain Mayne</span>,</p> - -<p>Before you read this, I shall have left Fairplains. I have been -thinking hard the last two days, and am quite sure, that it is best -for us to part <i>now</i>,—and never to meet again. Let us forget the -dreadful ceremony of last Friday. You know, that we agreed to it, only -to satisfy my dear father,—at least that was <i>my</i> intention,—so that -he might be at ease in his mind, before he left me. On this point, our -aim was accomplished; and there let the matter <i>end</i>. I feel certain, -that you have no true wish, that I should live with you—'until death -us do part.' Far from it. I am just a little hill girl, and not -the least one of your sort. For my own part, the mere sight of you -brings before me that horrible struggle with the panther, when Daddy -interposed, and saved you. I <i>know</i> you are honourable, and a man of -your word, and wish to give me—as payment—a home and your name; but -I cannot accept one or other, for—to be honest—I shall <i>never</i> like -you again, and if I were forced to live with you, I should loathe you.</p> - -<p>It seems dreadful to write this down in black and white, but it is -the truth; and surely the truth is best? I am so absolutely miserable -that I wish I was dead: I could easily kill myself with an overdose -of chlorodyne—we keep a large store on account of the coolies—and -I would be buried in the garden beside <i>them</i>, and be no further -trouble to anyone; but Daddy always said, 'Suicide was a coward's -act,' and I shall struggle on somehow. Mrs. Ffinch, who, as you -know, is immensely clever, had a long talk with me yesterday. She -pointed out that you and I were entirely unsuited; that apart from -the circumstances, we would have been almost the last people in the -world to think of marrying one another; that you had told her the idea -of marriage had never entered your mind, and it would be the <i>ruin</i> -of your career. This can easily be prevented. No one, except the -Hicks and Teddy Dawson, knows of the ceremony. The parson is about to -settle in Tasmania;—they will <i>all</i> be dumb. Here in India, people -so frequently separate, scatter, and forget that they had ever met. I -shall do my utmost to forget you, and I hope you will let me drop out -of your thoughts as completely as if you had never seen me; and should -we meet—which I trust is unlikely—let it be as strangers. Do not -be at all concerned about my future. I have sufficient money to pay -for my passage, I have friends at home, and if the worst come to the -worst, I can be a lady's help, or governess. At any rate, I shall be -independent. I hope you will not think, that in taking this step, I -am also breaking my promise to father. You know, that his <i>one</i> idea, -as he lay dying, was for my happiness; and I shall be far happier—if -I ever can be happy again—to feel, that I am free—also that you are -free. I believe, that if I had followed my first intention of keeping -to the letter of our contract, and accompanied you down to Cananore, -we should have been the two most miserable people in the whole world.</p> - -<p class="ph1">Believe me,<br /> -Yours faithfully,<br /> -<span class="smcap">Nancy Travers</span>.</p></div> - -<p>This was a much longer and fuller epistle than Nancy had intended to -send; but she was determined to make everything absolutely plain. -Possibly it was a stupid letter, and no doubt she had repeated herself -several times; also it was brusque, and rude. It might make Captain -Mayne dislike her extremely. In that case; so much the <i>better</i>! If -Mrs. Ffinch had written such a letter, how well it would have been -expressed; how beautifully she would have taken off the raw edges, and -made it almost a pleasure to read! Well, there it was; she would not -look at it again, in case she might alter something, so she thrust it -into an envelope, sealed it, and laid it beside her other despatch.</p> - -<p>Mrs. Hicks was only too sympathetic with Nancy's severe headache. She -paid several visits, imparting remedies, and outside intelligence. -Captain Mayne had not yet returned from his round of farewell calls, -but all his baggage had been packed by his "boy," everything was ready -for a start the next afternoon, and he had ordered up a pair-horse -tonga, for the use of the ayah, and herself.</p> - -<p>"I shall remain here to see you off, Nancy, my dear," she announced, -"and I've got hold of an old shoe that I intend to throw after you!"</p> - -<p>"Dear Mrs. Hicks, you are always so kind," said the girl, "and I'll -never forget what you have been to me, during this last awful week."</p> - -<p>Afterwards Mrs. Hicks remembered, that in Nancy's kiss there was -something soft and lingering—something in the nature of a farewell.</p> - -<p>Nancy, having taken an emotional leave of Francis, handed him two -letters to be immediately delivered, and prepared to depart at twelve -o'clock that night. Under the auspices of a high full moon, she rode -away from Fairplains, accompanied by Togo, and followed by her syce. -The domestic servants were aware of her impending departure,—for is -not everything known in the cookhouse, and go-down? When she came up -the drive, they were all, so to speak, paraded—standing in one long -line, to see the last of their little Missy. As she passed, she nodded -to each individually, and when she had reached the corner, where the -private track joined the great cart road, turned in her saddle, to look -back on her home, and to wave a valediction to the crowd.</p> - -<hr class="chap" /> - -<h2>CHAPTER XIII</h2> - -<h3>IN BLACK AND WHITE</h3> - - -<p>Mayne, an early riser, was generally the first to appear at chotah -hazri; and when, with an impressive gesture, Francis laid Nancy's -letter on the table beside him, he instantly recognized the writing, -and felt a premonition that there was something in the wind! With -admirably concealed impatience, he waited until the servant had -retired, to open this, the first communication from his wife. He read -it standing; then he sat down with a sudden plunge, and went slowly -over it again, whilst a curious, rather grim expression stole across -his face. Nancy's strange attitude was here most fully, and frankly -explained. Her look of cold dislike, her frigid silence, and pointed -avoidance, were amply accounted for, by the fact that she hated the -man, whom in her heart she accused of being the cause of her father's -death. Her love for <i>him</i>, was so absolute and overwhelming, that it -had changed her kindly liking for Mayne, into horror, and detestation, -and she spurned what she termed his "payment." The information was -before his eyes in clear black and white—the girl wrote a good, -legible hand—she had shot her bolt and fled. So after all his anxious -heart-searchings, stifled reluctance, and sincere good-will, Nancy had -deserted him, and gone her own way, to live her own life!</p> - -<p>His feelings were an extraordinary mixture; various and unusual -sensations, in turn swept over him; anger, humiliation, -astonishment—then finally, relief. It was a relief, to be free -from the desperate embarrassment of being married to a girl, a mere -playfellow, with whom he had never exchanged a word of love, nor for -whom he had ever felt the smallest touch of passion; yet on the -other hand, Nancy was his legal wife, and—in spite of her ignorant -confidence, and offer of release—to the best of his belief, it was -impossible to sever the bond between them. Also, he was in the position -of being sole executor of her father's will, and scanty personal estate.</p> - -<p>The actual fact of the marriage was known to few. He could now -rejoin his regiment as a bachelor; and the distasteful vision, of -presenting himself at Cananore, in company with a stony-faced, abjectly -miserable bride, faded away into the background. He would still -continue to live at the Mess, and if later, there were any awkward -developments—"sufficient unto the day was the evil thereof!"</p> - -<p>Mayne paused in his tramp to and fro, and was about to pour himself out -a cup of tea, when he beheld the shiny, copper-coloured face of Teddy -Dawson, appearing above the steps.</p> - -<p>"So I hear you are off this afternoon," he began, "and I have just -looked in to know if I can do anything to help? I was the first to -welcome you, and I should like to be the last to speed you, from this -part of the world."</p> - -<p>"You have come at an opportune moment," said Mayne, holding out his -hand; "the very fellow I particularly want to see. But first let me get -you a cup of tea."</p> - -<p>"All right, I don't mind," said Ted, tossing down his battered topee, -and taking a seat at the table. "How is Nancy?"</p> - -<p>"Nancy has gone."</p> - -<p>"Gone! What the Dickens do you mean?—Nancy gone! Gone where?"</p> - -<p>"As you were at the marriage, and are altogether behind the scenes, -also my first friend here,—I think I may show you her letter," said -Mayne, and he handed it across to his gaping <i>vis-à-vis</i>.</p> - -<p>Dawson read it with irritating deliberation; going back over sentences, -and frowning heavily as he did so. When he came to the end, he looked -up and said:</p> - -<p>"Nancy was always a queer child, and you will have to let her alone. -You couldn't well follow her, and drag her back—could you?"</p> - -<p>"I shall not move a finger," said Mayne, with deliberate emphasis.</p> - -<p>"It's just like one of her tempers; she'll cool down all right."</p> - -<p>"And where do I come in?" inquired Mayne. "She has made a pretty good -fool of <i>me</i>!"</p> - -<p>"Oh, you'll forgive her some day, for you're a real white man! I'm -awfully fond of Nan; she is clean, through and through—couldn't lie if -she tried; knows nothing whatever of love; or what's called 'sex,' and -that sort of thing. Her heart and soul were given to her Daddy; and now -that he is gone, the poor child feels that her life is smashed to bits."</p> - -<p>"That's true," assented Mayne, "and I can understand her grief. I have -made every allowance, and never intruded on her for a moment. I have -not laid eyes on Nancy since the funeral; she has remained shut up in -her own room. This," holding up the note, "is the first sign that she -has recognized my existence, and it gives me my dismissal, or 'jawaub.'"</p> - -<p>"Well, well," resumed Dawson, after an expressive pause (during which -he disposed of a large cup of tea), "it's rather a facer, I'll allow. I -believe I can trace the delicate hand of Mrs. Ffinch in it—she always -has a finger in every one's pie—and hitherto she has looked upon Nancy -as her own particular property. By the way, have you made any fresh -plans?"</p> - -<p>"Yes. I leave early this afternoon. Nancy's baggage will, of course, -remain, and as not a word of this business is known to anyone, bar the -Hicks, Mrs. Ffinch, and yourself, I shall rejoin my regiment, as if -nothing had happened."</p> - -<p>"And keep up the delusion?" said Ted, opening his large blue eyes; -"that won't be easy."</p> - -<p>"Why not? I don't intend to follow, or to trace Nancy: she can go her -own way. Money affairs, I'll arrange with you. I shall make her an -allowance, paid half-yearly to your bankers. Who are they?"</p> - -<p>"Grindlay and Co., but you may spare yourself the trouble, for Nancy -won't accept a penny—if <i>I</i> know her."</p> - -<p>"I shall lodge it all the same," said Mayne, looking obstinate. "Two -hundred and fifty pounds a year. I won't have her governessing, or any -of that nonsense. The inventory here has been seen to by Mrs. Hicks, -and the station-writer; I have wound up a few business matters, paid -off the servants, and, excepting a couple of yearly cheques, I shall -have no more to say to—Mrs. Mayne!"</p> - -<p>"Is that so?"</p> - -<p>"Certainly; it is Nancy who has left me,—and, as the natives say, 'one -hand cannot clap.'"</p> - -<p>"I must confess, I don't wonder you feel a bit hurt."</p> - -<p>"Hurt!" repeated Mayne, with an angry laugh.</p> - -<p>"I've a good idea where Nancy is. She has gone down to her old nurse in -Coimbatore; an excellent woman, who married a chap in the Telegraphs. -Nance could not be better fixed up, for the present; the girl feels -like a mortally wounded animal, that wants to hide from its own sort. -It would have been a terrible ordeal for a child like Nancy, with her -hurt, so to speak, <i>raw</i>, to find herself launched amongst complete -strangers, with no one to hold on to, but a fellow she had known for a -few weeks. One of my coolies told me, that last night he had seen the -ghost of a woman on a white horse riding down the ghât road. Of course, -that was Nancy, making for the railway station."</p> - -<p>"I'm fairly broad-minded," said Mayne, "and I can see the matter from -your point of view; naturally, you hold a brief for Nancy. I remember -the first time we met, you told me she was the apple of your eye!"</p> - -<p>"Aye. And what queer things have happened, since we overtook you that -day on your way here. Now I wonder, if I had turned you back, would it -have made any difference?"</p> - -<p>"No—I believe it was 'Kismet.' I wish to goodness, Kismet had left me -alone. However, I shall give the girl a wide berth,—and her freedom."</p> - -<p>"Oh, will you?" Dawson's tone implied doubt.</p> - -<p>"Yes, I shall hold my tongue; none of my brother officers would dream -of my having got married up on a coffee estate. Later, it may be a -bit awkward. You see I am my uncle's heir." He paused for a moment, -and fumbled with his tobacco pouch,—which, all unconscious, he was -holding upside down. "However, I'll manage somehow—even if there <i>are</i> -complications."</p> - -<p>"And how about Nancy? When she has recovered from this blow, has gone -to England and grown up, how will it be, if she comes across a fellow -she takes to? If ever she falls in love, it will be the devil of a -business. A case of all—or nothing. What will happen then, eh?"</p> - -<p>"There's no good in looking so far ahead," declared Mayne, preparing -to light his pipe. "Why meet trouble half way—one of us may die——"</p> - -<p>"Who is talking of dying?" inquired Mrs. Hicks, suddenly launching -herself into the verandah. "Boys, I've overslept myself most -disgracefully! and I'm shockingly late; but I always <i>was</i> a -lazybones,—and fond of my little bed. I've not even been in to see -Nancy yet."</p> - -<p>When it had been carefully explained to her, that there was no Nancy to -see, her fat, florid face was a study.</p> - -<p>"Well, this <i>is</i> a nice how-do-you-do!" she exclaimed. "If I hadn't -been an old silly, I might have had my suspicions, from her being so -quiet. Well, well, well! Fancy her running away! I didn't think she 'ad -it in her."</p> - -<p>"Oh, there's a lot in Nancy," declared her champion.</p> - -<p>"She kissed me something extra last night," resumed Mrs. Hicks, "and I -suppose it was for <i>good-bye</i>. Lors! what will people say!"</p> - -<p>"Nothing," replied Mayne emphatically. "They don't know anything about -<i>me</i>, and they will think it only natural that she should—as Dawson -suspects—have gone to her old nurse."</p> - -<p>"And so it's—you know what I mean—to be a dead letter, and hushed up?"</p> - -<p>"Yes."</p> - -<p>Mrs. Hicks gave a shrill, unladylike whistle.</p> - -<p>"Well, I declare! All the servants are 'in the know,'—but that doesn't -count; folks don't ever believe 'bazaar' talk, and of course Hicks and -I will 'old our tongues—you bet."</p> - -<p>"That will be very kind of you, Mrs. Hicks—but——"</p> - -<p>"But," nodding her head expressively, "if either of you go and marry -other people, it will be bigamy, eh?"</p> - -<p>"I suppose so," replied Mayne. "There is one thing positively certain."</p> - -<p>"What's that?"</p> - -<p>"That I have been married for the first, and last, time."</p> - -<p>"Well, there's no saying; queer things 'appen. I'm sure this day week, -you never dreamt you'd be a married man to-day; and you and Nancy are -married, just as tight as 'Icks and me. You've got the certificate?"</p> - -<p>"I have, and I do not intend to shirk all my responsibilities. I shall -make Nancy an allowance; but I'll never see her again."</p> - -<p>"Many's the woman that will be thankful to be married on <i>those</i> -terms," chuckled Mrs. Hicks, now lighting up.</p> - -<p>The good lady was enjoying a thorough holiday, and being as free and -easy, and talkative as she pleased; far removed from the irritating -criticisms of her daughters. She and her would-be son-in-law were pals! -It was Jessie, influenced by Mrs. Ffinch—and Dr. Hicks—ambitious for -his daughter—who were the real obstacles to the alliance.</p> - -<p>"I'll run down to Coimbatore," she announced, "and see the child. Hicks -doesn't like the look of her, and I'll just tell her what I think of -her, for giving me the slip, the sly little toad! I suppose you don't -send her no message?" suddenly turning to Mayne.</p> - -<p>"Well, yes, perhaps I'd better. I'll go and write a line now, no time -like the present," and he rose and went towards the den.</p> - -<p>Mrs. Hicks' eyes followed him steadily. Then she burst out:</p> - -<p>"Nancy has been a fool!—fine, upstanding young fellows like him aren't -to be found on every coffee-bush, that I can tell you."</p> - -<p>"Maybe it'll come all right yet," said Dawson soothingly.</p> - -<p>"Maybe not. She has given him a nasty whack, and I think myself he has -a pride. My old boy will fetch me to-day, and everything here is now -settled, and cleared up, and the Travers' belongings are packed and -ready for the road. I believe the new acting-manager comes to-morrow. -My, what a change!" she added gloomily; "and all in one little week."</p> - -<p>"Yes, and somehow I can't realize it," said Dawson. "As I sit here, -I half expect to see Travers riding up from the Factory on his brown -pony, and Nancy flying along this verandah, like a gale of wind."</p> - -<p>"Aye, that's true," assented Mrs. Hicks, and she heaved a great sigh; -"we have all had good times here, and the Travers' can never be -replaced," and again she sighed heavily.</p> - -<p>Meanwhile Mayne was writing rapidly on the estate note-paper:</p> - -<div class="blockquot"> - -<p><span class="smcap">Dear Nancy</span>,</p> - -<p>I have received your letter, and accept the situation, all shall be -as you wish. I am sorry to find that you dislike me so inveterately, -and decline what you describe as 'Payment'—but it cannot be helped. -Let me assure you, that I have no intention of coming into your life, -and the marriage, as far as I am concerned, shall be as though it had -never taken place. I have arranged to make you a yearly allowance -(£250) which will be paid to our mutual friend, Ted Dawson. The estate -and personal affairs have been satisfactorily settled.</p> - -<p class="ph1">Yours faithfully,<br /> -<span class="smcap">Derek Danvers Mayne</span>.</p></div> - -<p>When he handed this note to Mrs. Hicks, she turned it over, looked at -the superscription, and remarked:</p> - -<p>"I see you've addressed it to 'Miss Travers.'"</p> - -<p>"Well, why not?" he protested; "I feel sure Nancy would not have opened -it, had it been addressed to 'Mrs. Mayne.'"</p> - -<hr class="tb" /> - -<p>Early that same afternoon Mayne rode down the ghât,—in what a -different frame of mind, to the blithe expectations with which he had -gaily ascended the same road! Near the foot of the hills he encountered -a syce, who salaamed to him profoundly! Could there be anything -ironical in that salute? The man was leading a remarkably hot grey -pony; the pony was carrying a side-saddle.—An episode was closed.</p> - -<hr class="chap" /> - -<h2>CHAPTER XIV</h2> - -<h3>"NANCY SITS WITH SORROW"</h3> - - -<p>Nancy, the ayah, Togo and the luggage, arrived at Coimbatore station -without any incident, much less a half-expected "hue and cry." Here -Mrs. Simpson awaited them with her roomy bullock cart, drawn by a pair -of huge Nellore bullocks, and carried the little party to her large and -comfortable bungalow on the outskirts of the town. She was delighted -to welcome her nursling,—to whom she had always been devoted.—She -made her eat, and insisted upon putting her to bed, and treating her -precisely as if she were still a small child!</p> - -<p>When Nancy was at rest, in her spacious white cot, Jane Simpson sat by -her side, and listened with tearful sympathy to details of the illness -and death of her former master; for all this, she had been prepared, -but the unexpected news of Nancy's marriage, reduced her to a condition -of stunned, and horrified silence.</p> - -<p>Jane Simpson was by nature excessively prim, a little narrow-minded, -strictly conventional, but a most worthy person. Her house, her -person, and especially her hands, were beautifully kept. When she had -deposited Nancy at school in Eastbourne, she subsequently turned her -attention to professional nursing, and after several years' experience, -had attracted the attention of one of her patients, married him, and -returned to India,—a country she abused for its slack unpractical -ways, but nevertheless liked it all the same. Bob Simpson's pay was -liberal, and although they had no family, Jane was a very busy and -contented woman.</p> - -<p>From her point of view, everything should be foreseen, cut and -dried, punctual to a second, and absolutely proper and correct. This -sudden marriage of her little girl to an acquaintance no better than -a stranger, figuratively swept her off her feet! However, like a -prudent woman, she <i>said</i> little. Nancy was looking desperately ill, -a different creature from the buoyant Nancy of Fairplains: so silent, -haggard, and lifeless. What further information Mrs. Simpson required -was eagerly supplied by the ayah, who though not actually present, -had witnessed the marriage ceremony in the drawing-room,—through an -obliging crack in the door.</p> - -<p>"Mayne Sahib and the Missy, standing before the Padre, both looking -<i>too</i> sorry. Mayne, he very nice gentleman. His butler telling, a -good sahib, and no evil liver,—everyone liking. He money got, too. -Yesterday giving me twenty rupees," and the ayah's black eyes glistened -greedily.</p> - -<p>"Do you think he will come down here after Miss Nancy?" anxiously -inquired Mrs. Simpson.</p> - -<p>"How I telling, Memsahib?" throwing up her small brown hands, "but -for what good? My Missy plenty sick, soon, soon, very sick—and maybe -die.—Ah ye yoh!" and she wrung her hands.</p> - -<p>Part of this augury came true. The dreaded reaction set in, Nancy had -a bad attack of fever, and was seriously ill. She was lucky to find -herself in Jane Simpson's care, and with the help of a good doctor, -and the best of nursing, at the end of three weeks, she had recovered; -but rose from her bed a shattered wreck, wasted to a shadow, with a -small wan white face, from which all trace of sunburn and tan had now -completely disappeared.</p> - -<p>During the fever, Mrs. Simpson kept all visitors steadily at bay. -Training as a professional nurse, had invested her with an inflexible -attitude, and even Mrs. Ffinch, who had motored down on two occasions, -could not succeed in interviewing the invalid; but when Nancy was -convalescent, the position was stormed.</p> - -<p>Mrs. Ffinch brought her neighbour, Mrs. Hicks, with her in the car, -and during most of the journey, the two ladies wrangled, for they held -diametrically opposite views with respect to the protégée they were -about to visit. Mrs. Hicks declared "that it would be a great pity -there should be a complete breach between Nancy and Captain Mayne." She -was sentimental, and soft-hearted in her way,—fond of the girl, and -well disposed towards the man.</p> - -<p>"By and by, if they're <i>let alone</i>, believe you me, they'll make -friends! After all, Mayne is a fairly good match. I am told he has five -hundred a year, and expectations from an uncle."</p> - -<p>"Yes," broke in Mrs. Ffinch, who was not soft-hearted, and whose -own love affair had been strangled. "You can imagine the uncle's -delight—<i>I</i> know the old man—when he hears that his nephew and heir, -has picked up a little nobody off an Indian coffee estate!"</p> - -<p>"I don't think that's a very nice, or kind, way to speak of Nancy," -gobbled Mrs. Hicks, swelling with indignation.</p> - -<p>"My dear, good Mrs. Hicks, don't be angry; it's not <i>my</i> idea, I do -assure you; only one that would undoubtedly present itself to this rich -old man! I propose to shelter Nancy under my own wing. I shall be going -home next spring, and as soon as she has recovered from her grief, I -shall take her about, and give her a good time—and——"</p> - -<p>"And marry her off," broke in Mrs. Hicks, with challenging insolence. -"Match-making with you is just a play; all excitement and amusement. -However, you can't marry Nancy, for you know as well as I do, she has a -husband already!"</p> - -<p>"Nothing of the sort," rejoined the other, "any claim that Captain -Mayne would put forward could easily be refuted. He won't do it though, -and I suppose if he chose, he could sue Nancy for desertion."</p> - -<p>Argument waxed fast and furious, and Mrs. Ffinch had much the best of -the conflict. She kept her temper admirably, whilst her opponent was -in a red-hot towering rage. On such occasions she completely cast all -fear, and awe of the "Dictator," to the winds, and told her various, -plain, and unpleasant truths. On the present occasion, she said:</p> - -<p>"You know very well, that if <i>you</i> had been here and had a hand in this -marriage of Nancy's, you would have <i>made</i> her stick to it through -thick and thin—but as it was all got up in a hurry, and, so to speak, -behind your back, you'll do all you can to smash it!"</p> - -<p>Mrs. Ffinch's reply was an icy and dignified silence. The proper and -suitable punishment for her companion would have been to open the door -of the car, request her to descend, and allow her to walk the remainder -of the distance down to Coimbatore.</p> - -<p>For a long time, neither matron spoke; and the motor skimmed rapidly -down the winding road, passing many familiar land-marks. The cold fit -was now on Mrs. Hicks. She had let herself go, and said too much, and -there wasn't the smallest doubt that her companion—from what she knew -of her—would hold a truce for the present, but in some way or another -"have it in for her" on a future occasion!</p> - -<p>As they sped along the flat plains, in the direction of Coimbatore, -Mrs. Ffinch broke the silence.</p> - -<p>"I propose to take Nancy back with me this evening; her room is ready, -and most of her mourning has been finished, so, dear Mrs. Hicks, on -our return journey, I'm sure you won't mind sitting in front with the -chauffeur, and I will take the poor child in beside me."</p> - -<p>In her own opinion she was carrying out the part of a benevolent -friend—she was saving Nancy from a loveless union, and the misery of -being dragged round the world, by a man who did not want her.</p> - -<p>The two well-meaning visitors were greatly shocked when they beheld -their young protégée. She looked so dull, and vacant, almost like -another creature! Her attitude resembled that of a wounded creature, -cowering, and withdrawing, from those who wished to do her good. She -resisted all Mrs. Ffinch's importunities and persuasions to accompany -her to Clouds Rest. This, was the one subject on which the girl seemed -to have a fixed opinion; nothing would induce her to return to the -hills. Otherwise, whether she was to remain at Coimbatore, or go to -England, to live, or to die,—was apparently a matter of complete -indifference.</p> - -<p>Whilst Mrs. Ffinch was holding a whispered conference with Jane -Simpson, Mrs. Hicks seized the opportunity to give Nancy the note from -Mayne. The girl turned it over listlessly.</p> - -<p>"It is his answer to yours," explained Mrs. Hicks. "He wrote it right -away, and gave it to me. I thought it better to wait until I could -bring it down myself."</p> - -<p>"I suppose so, thank you," she said as she opened it, glanced over it, -and then tore it into four pieces. "<i>That's</i> done," she said, looking -at Mrs. Hicks, with unexpected animation.</p> - -<p>"Well, I'm not so sure!" rejoined the matron, "and I'm not of the same -mind as Mrs. Ffinch. We quarrelled about the business the whole way -down. Indeed, I think myself, she had half a mind to put me out on the -side of the road! I'm afraid I let my temper get the better of me, and -said lots of things I'm sorry for now. I expect Mrs. Ffinch is bitterly -disappointed that you won't go back with her, Nancy. I shouldn't be -surprised if she carried her point yet, and you know we'd all be only -too glad to have you among us. Hush! here she comes!"</p> - -<p>As the time passed, Nancy's grief and misery, instead of abating seemed -to increase. She was no longer an invalid, but helped Nurse Jane about -the house, knitted, sewed, and walked out daily. Her attitude was one -of an unnatural passivity. Grief had burnt into her very soul, and -her inner being was absorbed with one obsession: the memory of her -father. Apparently his image filled her thoughts to the exclusion of -all else. This much, Nurse Jane gathered, during their infrequent -conversations—for Nancy now was almost dumb. As for Mayne, the girl -appeared to have forgotten his existence! She was completely prostrated -by the loss of her parent, and gradually sinking into an apathetic -condition of mind and body, from which at all cost, she must be -redeemed.</p> - -<p>As Bob Simpson's cheery good humour, and Jane's authoritative efforts, -had not the smallest effect upon this white-faced silent inmate, Mrs. -Ffinch and Mrs. Hicks and Ted Dawson were summoned,—and held, so to -speak, a committee upon the case. They decided that the girl must have -a complete change, otherwise, it would be impossible for her to regain -her normal balance! Mrs. Ffinch relinquished her efforts to induce -Nancy to live with her, had obtained her aunt's address, and sent her -one of her most diplomatic letters—to which there had been a cool, but -polite reply.</p> - -<p>Mrs. Jenkins had also written to her niece, offering to receive her, -and to give her an asylum until she could make other arrangements. -Nancy, who had been two months at Coimbatore, was a wan, hollow-eyed -spectre of herself: it was evident, that in her present environment -she would never recover her mental poise. In the day-time she sat -and walked, and talked like some dull automatic figure—entirely -indifferent to her surroundings. As Mrs. Ffinch gravely considered -her—she mentally concluded that, "that way madness lies!" and -Mrs. Simpson's friends, who had known the gay and happy Miss Nancy -Travers, assured one another, there was no doubt at all, but that the -broken-hearted girl was either dying, or going out of her mind!</p> - -<p>"She must be sent away at <i>once</i>!" such was Mrs. Ffinch's mandate, -after a protracted interview with Nurse Jane. "There is her aunt's -invitation—she has the money for her passage, her mourning is ready, -and, as it happens, most providentially, Mrs. Sandilands is going home -by the <i>Patna</i>. They can travel together. I shall wire to Cook, make -all arrangements, secure a separate cabin for Nancy, and this day week, -she will find herself at sea!"</p> - -<hr class="chap" /> - -<h2>CHAPTER XV</h2> - -<h3>A FRIEND IN NEED</h3> - - -<p>Thanks to Mrs. Ffinch's promise and her prompt exertions, within a -week's time Nancy found herself in the Madras roads, on board the P. -& O. steamer <i>Patna</i>, bound for London. The <i>Patna</i> was a full boat, -carrying a mixed multitude of cheerful passengers. Among these was -Blanche Sandilands (née Meach), a remarkably pretty woman in exuberant -spirits,—embarking on her first trip to England in the character of -a rich, popular, much admired young matron. Her cabin was crammed -with flowers and books, friends to bid her good-bye were assembled in -flattering numbers, and among these, she anxiously looked about for her -charge.</p> - -<p>Yes, there was that invaluable Mrs. Ffinch,—and could it be Nancy -Travers? Nancy, so altered as to be almost unrecognizable. The bright -school-girl, she remembered, as just out from England, brimming over -with happiness, and gaiety, was now a wan white creature in deep -mourning, with sad abstracted eyes. Thank goodness, they were not -sharing the same cabin, or she would certainly be flooded out with -tears! What, she asked herself, could she do with her? Mrs. Sandilands -had been looking forward to such a ripping time on the voyage: the -Bruffs, and the Colvilles, Captain Yates and Mr. Orme, were on board, -but there would not be much fun for <i>her</i>, if all day long she was tied -to such a wet blanket as this poor child—who appeared to be actually -stupefied with grief.</p> - -<p>To her immense relief, the lively lady soon discovered that Nancy -Travers would be no encumbrance. It was true that she sat beside her at -meals (nobly representing the traditional death's head), but otherwise -effaced herself, seeming to prefer solitude, and her own company, -sitting aloof with a book, or disappearing for hours into her nook of a -cabin in the stern.</p> - -<p>Mrs. Sandilands lent her novels, offered her chocolates, and little -toilet luxuries, kissed her perfunctorily night and morning, and -left her to herself,—assuring her friends, that such was the truest -kindness, and went her own light-hearted way to play deck games, and -Bridge; or to embark on such amusing and harmless flirtations, as are -expected of the prettiest woman on the ship.</p> - -<p>At Colombo the passengers went bodily ashore, and enjoyed the few gay -hours at the Galle Face Hotel, explored the bazaars, or darted off in -rickshaws to inspect the Cinnamon gardens. With their return at dinner -time, they brought a horde of new comers,—tourists, planters, and -their belongings.</p> - -<p>Among the crowd, one figure was conspicuously prominent, and proceeded -at once to dominate the ship.</p> - -<p>"Yet after all, what was Mrs. De Wolfe?" asked a girl plaintively, "but -an ugly, rude, old woman?"</p> - -<p>The lady appeared to know several of the passengers, and to be a sea -friend of the captain's; for a special place had been reserved at his -table, also she enjoyed a large double cabin, and was attended by a -hard-featured, but dignified maid.</p> - -<p>In appearance, Mrs. De Wolfe looked formidable enough! Tall and bony, -with a long, wrinkled face, a commanding hooked nose (a family feature -descending through generations), sharp black eyes, heavily marked -brows, and a tightly closed mouth, which, when open, displayed two -gleaming rows of expensively fitted teeth. Her hands exhibited knotted -veins, and surprisingly large knuckles, but the lady's most distinctive -endowment was a far-reaching, masculine voice. Her style of dress was -tailor-made, and suitable, her only jewellery, a thin wedding ring.</p> - -<p>What was her claim to the almost subservient homage which she received? -She was suffered to break into the most interesting conversation; her -remarks were listened to with profound respect, and she was waited on -with slavish assiduity. Perhaps the answer was, that the old lady had -influence, a strong personality, a sharp tongue, and great possessions. -She was a masterful, independent individual, who did what she liked, -went where she fancied, and said what she pleased! Nancy shrank from -her instinctively, and when on deck, kept well out of her orbit, and -beyond the range of those piercing eyes.</p> - -<p>One evening, as she sat pretending to read, she was startled by a deep -voice speaking over her shoulder. It said:</p> - -<p>"What's the matter with you? Why don't you go and play about? You look -like a sick chicken!"</p> - -<p>As Nancy gazed straight up into the old wrinkled face, her lips -twitched, but she made no reply. Mrs. De Wolfe, who evidently expected -an answer, waited for a moment, still staring fixedly. It was something -like the children's game of "Who will laugh first?" Then with an -indignant "Humph!" she moved away.</p> - -<p>The <i>Patna</i>, four days out from Colombo, had experienced fairly -fine weather, and real tropical heat. Nancy slept in the top berth -of her tiny cubby hole, with the port wide open, and was dreaming -a delightful dream, when it suddenly turned to a sense of horrible -reality and <i>drowning</i>. She was roused by a wandering green wave, -which, having discovered an inviting porthole, flowed in torrents over -her prostrate form, and completely swamped the cabin. As soon as she -had recovered her breath, and the shock, she endeavoured to close the -port. It proved much too stiff. Then she sprang down into the water -on the floor, snatched at her dressing-gown, and opening the door, -screamed for a steward. A man in the next cabin had evidently met -with the same catastrophe, and was in a similar plight. He and Nancy -faced one another in the passage, a dripping, shivering pair! Very -soon a bedroom steward appeared on the scene, there was loud talking, -splashing, mopping. In the midst of this, a door opened, and a gruff -voice demanded:</p> - -<p>"What's all this noise about?"</p> - -<p>Then the face of Mrs. De Wolfe appeared. She wore a large lace-frilled -nightcap, "and looked for all the world," as the young man subsequently -described, "like the wolf in Red Riding Hood."</p> - -<p>"There's been a sea into these two cabins, ma'am," explained the -steward, "and this 'ere lady and gentleman has been washed out!"</p> - -<p>The old woman now came forth, and surveyed them impartially; the smart -clean-shaven man in pink pyjamas, and a blanket; the girl in a blue -dressing-gown, with two long plaits of hair dripping down her back, and -instantly recognized the "Ghost," Nancy's nickname on the boat.</p> - -<p>"You come along in here," she commanded, stretching out her bony hand, -and taking her by the wrist. "Steward, send my maid at once," and the -cabin door closed on the pair—the wolf, and the lamb!</p> - -<p>"You shall have dry things immediately," said Mrs. De Wolfe, "and -Haynes shall make you up a bed on the sofa here."</p> - -<p>"Thank you, ma'am, you are very kind," chattered Nancy, whose teeth -were like a pair of castanets.</p> - -<p>"Take a towel and dry your hair, Haynes will be here in a moment."</p> - -<p>Almost as her mistress spoke, Haynes made her appearance in a trim -red flannel dressing-gown, and took the matter in hand with quiet -promptitude. Nancy soon found herself invested in a beautiful silk and -lace nightgown, which she regarded with unspeakable awe.</p> - -<p>"It's quite all right, chicken," declared the old lady who had returned -to her berth, "I wear plain upper garments, and keep the show for what -I call my 'Undies.' It fits you to a T. Better sleep with the towel -round your head. How on earth do you manage to hide all that hair!"</p> - -<p>"Less talking!" growled a voice from the neighbouring cabin.</p> - -<p>"Haynes, you'll bring two teas at half-past seven," continued Mrs. De -Wolfe, totally unmoved by this command, "and now you may turn out the -light, and go."</p> - -<p>In the ensuing darkness, Nancy was able to reflect at leisure upon -her novel position. She was actually sleeping in the cabin—and -the nightgown—of the woman she most feared and avoided of all the -passengers on board the <i>Patna</i>. Yet in spite of her overpowering -personality, she had proved to be a good Samaritan, and not so alarming -after all; consoled by this conviction, Nancy dozed off.</p> - -<p>In the morning, Haynes—a celebrated Treasure—brought Nancy a cup of -delicious "private" tea, and when she had drunk it, and thanked her -hostess for a night's lodging, she slipped on her dressing-gown, and -fled into her own quarters—once more habitable.</p> - -<p>The little episode of the "wash-out" had no immediate results beyond -the exhibition of two mattresses, and several blankets hung out to dry, -and Nancy's acquaintance with Mrs. De Wolfe went no further. She shrank -more and more into solitude and silence, and gave way to the gnawing -misery and loneliness of her heart—plunged in the agony of a terrible -loss, she was left to struggle in it quite alone.</p> - -<p>One morning Mrs. De Wolfe encountered her face to face, at the top -of the companion ladder, nodded brusquely, and stared. The girl's -face subsequently haunted her. Oh, what a picture of real grief,—and -nothing but grief! Impressed by this vision, she proceeded to make -inquiries respecting the solitary young woman in mourning. Mrs. -Sandilands (a notable chatterbox) volubly related the tale of tragedy, -dwelt on Nancy's adoration for her father, their ideally happy life, -his death,—and her altered fortune.</p> - -<p>"Nancy has no one belonging to her, except a disagreeable aunt," she -said, "a half-sister, who has been at daggers drawn with Mr. Travers -for twenty years; however she has offered what she calls 'an asylum' to -the girl, until she can find some job."</p> - -<p>Mrs. De Wolfe nodded and grunted; she also marked, learned and inwardly -digested this information.</p> - -<p>A grand fancy ball was got up on board the <i>Patna</i>, in order -to inaugurate her entrance into the Red Sea; the preparations, -arrangements and expedients, afforded almost as much enjoyment as the -dance itself. Such were its attractions, that Mrs. De Wolfe's special -Bridge table was ruthlessly dissolved. One of the keenest players was -appearing as Neptune, another as Mephistopheles, a stout, middle-aged -lady as Ophelia. Mrs. De Wolfe made no change in her plain rich evening -toilet—though more than one malicious tongue had suggested that "she -might get herself up as the Witch of Endor."</p> - -<p>Tired of looking on at the whirling crowd, she went on deck, and -having descried a solitary figure leaning over the side, approached it -stealthily and, so to speak, pounced!</p> - -<p>"No, don't go away, little sick chick!" she said, laying her bony grasp -on Nancy's arm. "Come over here, and talk to me," and Nancy was carried -away a helpless prisoner, to where two deck-chairs happened to be -placed close together. "You're not looking on?"</p> - -<p>Nancy shook her head.</p> - -<p>"No, I'm told you have had great trouble—and I'm very sorry for you."</p> - -<p>"Thank you," said the girl stiffly.</p> - -<p>"Come now, do you think it is right to give way to it like this? -keeping apart from your fellow creatures, and fretting yourself to -death?"</p> - -<p>"I cannot help it."</p> - -<p>"You could, if you tried."</p> - -<p>"Oh, you don't know——" and Nancy caught her breath.</p> - -<p>"Pardon me, I do know! Your chaperone told me all about it. I'm sure if -your father could see you,—and we have no proof otherwise,—it would -hurt him terribly to witness such hopeless, useless, misery."</p> - -<p>"My father was the same himself," declared Nancy, "after my mother -died, and I was sent to England."</p> - -<p>"I know; your friend, Mrs. Sandilands, an exhaustive talker, assured -me, he was so heart-broken, that he allowed his affairs to what is -called 'go to the dogs.' Did he not regret <i>that</i>?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, he did—but I have no affairs."</p> - -<p>"You have your life to lead, my dear. Come, do not play the coward, but -brace yourself for the race that is before you."</p> - -<p>"Oh, I can't," she muttered; "if I could only <i>die</i>!"</p> - -<p>"What nonsense," protested the old lady, "I've no patience with this -silly sort of talk."</p> - -<p>For a moment there was no answer, and the silence was filled with the -blare of the band, and a rousing Two-step.</p> - -<p>"Because perhaps you don't know what trouble is," murmured Nancy at -last.</p> - -<p>"Don't I? I am not disposed to talk of my private affairs with -strangers—but for once, I will." A harsh tragedy looked out of her -old eyes, as she added: "Listen. You possibly see me a gruff, selfish, -overbearing old woman, with not a thought in the world beyond her -dinner, and a rubber of Bridge. Nevertheless, I have indeed known -anguish—the wounds throb still. My husband left me, when we were young -and happy; my eldest boy was killed at Magersfontein, my youngest, -died of typhoid in India,—all alone; and here am I, all alone,—with -nothing awaiting me but the grave." She paused, for a moment. "Now you -have, I trust, a long useful life, and many happy hours before you. -Why, you cannot be more than eighteen."</p> - -<p>"I was eighteen three months ago."</p> - -<p>"And eighteen wishes to die! Mrs. Sandilands tells me you are going to -live with an aunt in London. May I hear her name?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, it is Mrs. Jenkins. She has a house in Queen's Gate."</p> - -<p>"Strange, I think I've heard of her. She is a widow like myself,—very -comfortably off. Her chief interest in life, is her health, a <i>malade -imaginaire</i>. Do you know anything of nursing?"</p> - -<p>"Not much, I am afraid."</p> - -<p>"Well, then, my dear, I am well experienced—and I am going to -prescribe for you. You are to come along with me, and look on at the -ball; and then we will go and have a bit of supper. Yes, I <i>insist</i>!" -There was no gainsaying this old lady.</p> - -<p>When Mrs. De Wolfe and her young friend parted that night in their -mutual passage, she said:</p> - -<p>"I intend to take you in hand, Miss Nancy Travers. I shall not allow -you to sit idle in the market-place, eating your heart out. To-morrow -I'll give you some knitting, and teach you to play Piquet and Patience. -You can look upon me as your deputy chaperone."</p> - -<p>As deputy chaperone, she took entire charge of Nancy—who felt -powerless to resist—the girl interested her surprisingly. When she -forgot herself, she could talk, she could sew, she could even smile! -By the time the <i>Patna</i> was in the Canal, Nancy was better. The -sea-air revived her; her new acquaintance acted as a tonic, kept her -incessantly occupied, promenaded the deck with her, told her stories, -gave her sound advice, and from being a mere crumpled heap of hopeless -misery lifted her once more to a foothold in life.</p> - -<p>It had been discovered that the "Ghost," as she was called, was an -excellent pianist, and consequently much in request to accompany song -or violin. This demand brought her into communication with other young -people—which was good for Nancy.</p> - -<p>Mrs. Sandilands was amazed at the acquaintance which had been struck -up between two such incongruous characters as Mrs. De Wolfe, and the -Travers girl. What had they in common? However it came about, the old -woman had effected a wonderful change, and as it were restored the -Ghost to life, and the material world. She now went to and fro and -mixed with other people, and no longer spent hours shut up in her -little cabin.</p> - -<p>When the <i>Patna</i> was in the Channel, Mrs. De Wolfe said to her protégée:</p> - -<p>"Do not forget to give me your address, my dear, and I will come and -see you."</p> - -<p>"That will be very kind."</p> - -<p>"I stay in London occasionally, but my home is in the country,—also in -the wide world—for I travel a great deal. Excuse my plain speaking, -my dear, but have you no income at all? I understand that your father -was a Travers of Lambourne, and I believe they went through every penny -they possessed?"</p> - -<p>"I have twenty pounds a year," replied Nancy, "and I have had a good -education; but I'm afraid I look too young to be a governess. If the -worst comes to the worst, I might go into a shop. I think I'd rather -like that—millinery, or a ladies' outfitting—a sort of place where -there are no men."</p> - -<p>"Are you afraid of them?"</p> - -<p>"Oh no," and she laughed.</p> - -<p>"No love affairs yet, I should imagine," said Mrs. De Wolfe, with -customary bluntness.</p> - -<p>"No love affairs," repeated Nancy, but she coloured vividly.</p> - -<p>"Ah! then there <i>is</i> someone?" remarked her astute questioner.</p> - -<p>"Yes, there was someone; someone I don't like; but it had nothing to do -with a love affair—and I pray that we may never meet again."</p> - -<p>"I'm afraid that will be no use, my dear—we all meet the very people -we don't want to see!"</p> - -<p>"Well, I shall always want to see <i>you</i>!" said Nancy impulsively.</p> - -<p>"I'm glad of that, my child, for the number of people who never wish to -see me again, is fairly large. I hate cruelty, and snobbery; I speak -out my mind rather freely, as I tramp through life. Well, my little -chick, I've given you a lift on the road, haven't I?"</p> - -<p>"You have indeed; I can't tell you all you have done for me, roused -me from a stupor, that was creeping over me,—and helped me to make a -fresh start. I can never thank you enough, never!"</p> - -<p>"I don't want thanks. Give me deeds. You must write to me, Nancy. My -bankers, Coutts, will always find me, and if I don't answer, never -mind; I'm a shocking correspondent, my pen never saves my tongue. I'll -come and see you when I pass through Town, and I hope I'll find you -doing well. Be amenable to your father's sister: a rich, self-centred, -elderly woman. Accept hard knocks—they will brace you—later on, -you may find your life in pleasant places. I'd like to take you with -me to Scotland, but I am under orders to visit old friends, who fix -one's date of arrival, train, and room, with a firmness there is no -withstanding, and I dare not be a deserter."</p> - -<p>Nancy's were not the only thanks received by this social missionary. -Pretty Mrs. Sandilands overwhelmed her with effusive gratitude, and -flattering speeches.</p> - -<p>"You took the girl off my hands, dear kindest lady, and have turned her -into a new creature! I cannot imagine how you did it!"</p> - -<p>"A little sympathy, and fellow-feeling, was all that was required."</p> - -<p>Mrs. Sandilands coloured guiltily, and then replied:</p> - -<p>"Nancy is like her father, you see—she takes everything so terribly, -so foolishly, to heart."</p> - -<p>"But what a good thing it is, that she happens to have a heart to take -things to! Such folk are not common objects of the sea or shore in -these days."</p> - -<p>"Perhaps because people don't wear their hearts on their sleeves," -retorted Mrs. Sandilands sharply. At this moment, her companion was -summoned to receive a Marconigram, and she found herself unexpectedly -abandoned with all the honours of the last word!</p> - -<p>Later that same day, the <i>Patna</i> was berthed in the London Docks, and -her horde of passengers scattered afar, every man and woman to their -own; in most cases to forget within a few hours, those who had been -their daily associates for the last four weeks.</p> - -<hr class="chap" /> - -<h2>CHAPTER XVI</h2> - -<h3>AUNT ARABELLA</h3> - -<p>Mrs. Arabella Jenkins (née Travers), a stout little widow of -sixty-four, occupied a large and lugubrious mansion in Queen's -Gate, S.W. She was also the mistress of five thousand a year, eight -servants—not including a permanent "char"—and one dog. Her mother, -a pretty Scotch girl, had been of "no family," according to various -disappointed dowagers—"just someone Charles Travers had picked up -when shooting on a moor, and by no means a suitable châtelaine for -Lambourne."</p> - -<p>However, the poor despised lady reigned but a few short years, and -was succeeded, after a heartless interval, by a dashing damsel of -undeniable birth,—the mother of Laurence Travers, and his two -brothers,—who ably assisted her reckless husband to squander the -remains of a famous estate.</p> - -<p>At nineteen, Arabella Travers was a beauty of the Dresden china type: a -fair, fluffy little creature, with sunny hair and an exquisite pink and -white complexion. Possibly she was shrewd enough to foresee how family -affairs were drifting, for at the age of one and twenty, she accepted a -rich elderly suitor from the City, and exchanged a cheery country life -for a somewhat gloomy establishment in town.</p> - -<p>There had never been much in common between Arabella, her smart -stepmother, and riotous, high-spirited brothers. The Travers boys -laughed at, and mimicked old Sammy Jenkins, and old Sam openly abused -their mad folly, and extravagance, and rarely invited them under his -roof.</p> - -<p>However, he made Arabella an adoring and indulgent husband, spoiled and -petted her most injudiciously, and permitted her to believe, that there -was no one in the whole world as important or as beautiful as herself! -Having entirely uprooted all that was best in her character, he died, -leaving his widow every shilling he possessed,—to the wrathful -indignation of his anticipating kindred.</p> - -<p>A long impending crash promptly followed the death of Charles Travers. -The estate was sold for the benefit of creditors, Mrs. Travers retired -to Bournemouth, and there died within a year. Her three sons scattered -over the world; one went to India, another to Australia, a third -to South Africa. In a short time, the family were extinct, all but -prosperous Arabella, and handsome Laurence,—who, having made a fair -start in coffee, returned home for a few months' holiday.</p> - -<p>As he was a most presentable relative, his stepsister saw a good deal -of him, proudly exhibited him at tea-parties, and dinners, and exerted -herself to find him a suitable—that is to say—a well-dowered wife. In -one direction, she had even made overtures on his behalf, but before -her plans had time to materialize, Laurence returned to the East, and -married a wretched, penniless little governess! If he had been guided -by his wise relative, he could have married a rich, rather plain young -woman, who had been greatly attracted by his personality, and have -enjoyed the easy life of a country gentleman, and revived something of -the Travers prestige; instead of which, there he was, grilling out in -India, grubbing away at a coffee estate.</p> - -<p>Figuratively his sister washed her little fat hands of him; there had -been a brief interchange of disagreeable letters—such as appear to be -the copyright of near relatives—subsequently succeeded by a death-like -silence.</p> - -<p>Mrs. Jenkins ceased to trouble herself further with respect to her -brother—"impossible," she declared, "to help those who refused to -help themselves"—but vague scraps of information had reached her -indirectly. She heard of the birth of a child, the death of his wife, -and his financial collapse.</p> - -<p>Sunken in selfishness, and egoism, Arabella Jenkins had almost -forgotten her brother Laurence, when a twenty years' silence was -broken; a letter written by an unsteady hand, announced his impending -departure from this world, and appealed to a childless woman to give -his little girl a home. Later, she had seen the announcement of -his death in the <i>Times</i>.—It had been duly advertised by the ever -thoughtful Mrs. Ffinch.</p> - -<p>So Laurence was gone—and only forty-seven!—and now there was his -orphan. What was she to do about her? As dear Mrs. Taylor truly said, -"at her time of life, and in her state of health, it was monstrous to -suppose, that she should be saddled with an encumbrance." Of course -she must receive the girl for a few weeks, and possibly some of her -many friends, such as Lady Constance Howler, or Mrs. Fitzallen Jones, -might find her a situation. As for being permanently troubled with this -responsibility, the idea was simply too utterly ridiculous.</p> - -<p>The early beauty of Arabella Travers had not lasted—save in the lady's -own opinion. Bright hair and a rose-leaf skin, belong to the days of -one's youth. Mrs. Jenkins was now a stout, short-necked, squat little -body, with a pair of arrogant blue eyes, and an assertive nose. Happy -in the delusion that she did not look a day over thirty, she dressed -the age at great expense, and in the most villainous taste.</p> - -<p>Her house was warm, dark, and stuffy; very thick red carpets led the -way from hall to drawing-room. Here again was a red carpet, heavy -crimson curtains, and solid furniture of the most debased Victorian -type, of which the crowning atrocity was a large distorted ottoman -in the middle of the room. The walls were covered with chromes, and -mirrors in ponderous frames: a life-sized portrait of the mistress -of the house hung opposite the fireplace, and seemed determined to -challenge attention; it had been painted more than thirty years -previously, and portrayed a slim young lady, with rosy cheeks, -snow-white neck and arms,—and a voluminous blue dress. On her satin -lap reposed a small King Charles,—which same animal, beautifully -stuffed, and sheltered in a glass case, confronted visitors on the -first landing, and struck terror into the hearts of his own species.</p> - -<p>The portrait, the ottoman, and a grand piano, were the chief features -of the apartment, which also contained a good many "occasional" chairs, -and tables, various gaudy cushions, and lamp-shades (the spoils of -bazaars), and a large collection of small rubbish. Mrs. Jenkins was not -what is called "house-proud," and had made no alterations in what had -been her bridal home,—merely contributing the cheap little souvenirs -she had picked up on the Continent; such as Swiss carvings, Italian -delf, marble letter-weights, and paper fans. Her interest was mainly -centred in herself,—and the condition of her health; fortunately she -was as strong as the proverbial horse, and endowed with a hardy Scotch -constitution, otherwise she must have succumbed to the extraordinary -variety of medicines she sampled, and the different "cures" she -underwent. The lady took too little exercise, and too much nourishment. -Even when she was supposed to be completely prostrate, heavily laden -trays were welcomed by an astonishing appetite, which disposed of their -dishes with healthy voracity, and provoked much ribald jeering among -her retinue below stairs. The assimilating of prescriptions in the -shape of drops or tabloids, were with Mrs. Jenkins, a confirmed habit -and joy,—and took the place of cigarettes,—so soothing to other women.</p> - -<p>Doctors who attended Mrs. Jenkins, were legion in number—occasionally -two or three, unknown to one another, prescribed for the same case. -According to her statement, she had been threatened with almost every -known complaint: arthritis, appendicitis, angina pectoris, seemed to -dog her steps, and yet her recuperative vitality was incredible.</p> - -<p>One week prone in bed with nurses in attendance, and straw laid down -in the street: long ere the straw was removed, the invalid might have -been seen making a hearty lunch at "Prince's" or doing a matinée at the -Haymarket. Indeed, it was on record, that a bewildered caller had found -the knocker at No. 900 muffled, and on inquiring for the sufferer with -almost bated breath, was informed that she was at Ranelagh!</p> - -<p>Arabella Jenkins endeavoured to make the most of two worlds: the gay, -hustling, social world, and the invalid sphere,—bounded by doctors, -friendly inquiries, flowers, and commiseration. Nothing made Mrs. -Jenkins more indignant—indeed furious—than any doubt of the bona -fides of her ailments.</p> - -<p>She posed as an extraordinarily plucky woman, who bore her sufferings, -after the manner of the Spartan boy and fox; and those doctors who -refused to see eye to eye with her, or to take part in a medical -farce, were inscribed in her black books as not merely incapable, but -the deadliest of enemies. For all her masterful, despotic ways and -heavy purse, Mrs. Jenkins was more or less in the hands of her eight -servants, her old friends, and her numerous parasites.</p> - -<p>She held a court of elderly women; ladies in waiting (for favours) -attended her, flattered her, and sung her praises,—particularly in -her own presence. These, she rewarded with dinners, presents, drives, -her cast-off gowns, and her confidence. They had all expressed deep -sympathy over the impending invasion of this girl; for it was no secret -that "dearest Arabella did not care for young people." Intensely -jealous of each other's influence, they combined in a solid phalanx, -against an intrusive outsider.</p> - -<p>Two of Mrs. Jenkins' chief friends were sitting with her one afternoon -late in June. One had presented flowers, the other had propped her -up with cushions, and brought her a footstool—almost as if she was -recovering from one of her notable heart attacks. In reality, she was -awaiting the arrival of Miss Nancy Travers,—and Miss Nancy Travers was -late!</p> - -<p>Mrs. Taylor, chief counsellor, and parasite, was a widow with a -masculine cast of face, a dark red complexion, and beetling black -brows; being tall and massive, Mrs. Jenkins' dresses required a vast -amount of letting out and letting down, before she could assume them. -She lived in a little flat in Earl's Court, and was dependent on -dearest Arabella,—whom she had known as a girl, a fact which made her -position as mistress of the robes impregnable,—for many an excellent -meal, a serviceable cast-off costume, and her summer holidays. In -return for these benefits, she offered continual incense in the -shape of flattery, and much engrossing gossip—having a wide, and -illegitimate knowledge of other people's affairs.</p> - -<p>The other lady, Miss Dolling, was well and fashionably dressed—no -genteel mendicant this! but she was unfortunately plain: a long nose, -no chin, and fat flabby cheeks, largely discounted her string of -valuable pearls, and French toilette. Bessie Dolling, the original wife -selected for Laurence Travers, was as yet an unappropriated blessing: -after twenty years, she still hoarded Laurence's photograph, hugged -his memory, and firmly believed that if he had not been caught by an -adventuress, he would have returned to claim her. This fiction was a -sustaining consolation to the poor lady, did no one any harm, and need -not be begrudged.</p> - -<p>The three friends were grouped round the open window overlooking -Queen's Gate; Galpin the butler had just removed the tea-things, and -departed with the tea-cloth neatly tucked under his arm. He was a -stout, clean-shaven man, with a considerable meridian, and a stern -mouth. N.B.—His mistress was not a little afraid of him.</p> - -<p>"I wonder what she will be like?" said Miss Dolling suddenly.</p> - -<p>"My dear Bessie, that is the tenth time you have made the same remark," -peevishly protested Mrs. Taylor. "We shall know in a few minutes."</p> - -<p>"She will be exactly like her father," announced Mrs. Jenkins as -if stating a fact; "a dark Travers, with black hair, and well-cut -features, especially the Travers' nose," and as she spoke, she put up -her hand and stroked her own organ, which was short, thick, and first -cousin to a <i>nez retroussé</i>.</p> - -<p>"I shall send her to her room almost at once. These interviews are so -dreadfully trying for my poor heart."</p> - -<p>"Yes, dear friend," purred Mrs. Taylor, "and we will take care, that -she does not talk to you about the panther, or how her father was -killed."</p> - -<p>"Not killed at the time," contradicted Miss Dolling; "he died days -afterwards."</p> - -<p>"It was the panther's doing all the same," argued Mrs. Taylor, "and to -think of Laurence Travers making <i>no</i> provision for his girl,—I call -it downright wicked, leaving her entirely dependent on his dear, good, -golden-hearted sister."</p> - -<p>At this moment, there was a sound of violent commotion, and deafening -barking on the stairs. The Pom who left the room in close attendance on -cream, and savoury sandwiches, had undoubtedly encountered a stranger. -Miss Dolling looked hastily out of the window and said:</p> - -<p>"Yes—she has arrived! a four-wheeler, and several large boxes."</p> - -<p>Further information was postponed, as the door opened, and Galpin -announced "Miss Travers." Enter, a thin, woebegone girl, with reddish -hair: dressed in a crumpled black muslin, and carrying a waterproof on -her arm.</p> - -<p>Half way to the window, she paused for a moment, endeavouring to -discover which of these three women might be her aunt? Was it the big -one with the shiny red face, the thin one with the tortoise-shell -pince-nez,—that gave her such an owl-like expression,—or the little -fat one in pale blue chiffon? Evidently the latter, for she struggled -out of her arm-chair, and offered a podgy hand blazing with diamonds.</p> - -<p>"How do you do—<i>no</i>!" drawing back. "No, no, please don't kiss -me!—I'm dreadfully afraid of microbes. My health, as you know, is so -uncertain, and I have to be very cautious. We have been expecting you -for the last half hour. What has kept you?"</p> - -<p>"I believe the train was late," replied Nancy in a meek voice. Could -this little cross fat woman, be Daddy's sister?</p> - -<p>"Oh, was it? Have you paid the cab?"</p> - -<p>"Yes."</p> - -<p>"How much did he charge from Charing Cross?" demanded Mrs. Taylor,—an -authority on fares.</p> - -<p>"Four and sixpence."</p> - -<p>"What!" The word was almost a shout.</p> - -<p>"But I had luggage."</p> - -<p>"Oh, yes, and your big boxes had better be kept below," said her aunt; -"I am so afraid of my poor walls being damaged. You can sit down, -Nancy. These are my friends, Mrs. Taylor, and Miss Dolling."</p> - -<p>The ladies shook hands in silence. After a moment Miss Dolling said:</p> - -<p>"Had you a good passage?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, thank you."</p> - -<p>Meanwhile her aunt was surveying Nancy with a look of puzzled -disappointment.</p> - -<p>"So you are <i>not</i> a Travers after all," she remarked. "How odd, and -unexpected."</p> - -<p>"No, I believe I am a Blake."</p> - -<p>"A Blake," repeated Mrs. Jenkins, "I never heard of the people," and -she knitted her light eyebrows as she reflected that possibly "Blake" -had been the maiden name of the adventuress? "I daresay you would like -to take your things off?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, if you please, I should."</p> - -<p>"Then will you ring the bell? It is close to the chimney-piece—on the -far side."</p> - -<p>When Galpin awaited orders in the doorway, Mrs. Jenkins said:</p> - -<p>"Tell Baker to come and show Miss Travers to her room."</p> - -<p>Baker promptly appeared, took the new arrival, so to speak, in tow, -convoyed her to the fifth floor, and into a somewhat shabby apartment, -next to her own bower.</p> - -<p>As soon as Nancy had left the drawing-room, the three ladies closed -in together comfortably, in order to discuss the new arrival with -unreserved enjoyment. The ultimate finding of the conference proved -unfavourable.</p> - -<p>"The girl was not a Travers; her manners were awkward, and she was -quite hopelessly plain!"</p> - -<hr class="chap" /> - -<h2>CHAPTER XVII</h2> - -<h3>AS POOR RELATION</h3> - - -<p>Nancy soon fell into the routine of the household, and led an active, -useful life at 900, Queen's Gate. Undoubtedly it was good for her, that -she had no leisure, nor any opportunity for reflection and solitude, -save when in bed. Then she was so thoroughly tired, that she fell -asleep almost as soon as her head was on the pillow. After all, the -daily régime of this elderly establishment, was not so irksome to a -girl who had been for years, accustomed to the strict discipline of a -boarding school.</p> - -<p>Within a week, the new arrival had learnt her aunt's chief ailments and -requirements, taken a sharp impression of her character, and was not -a little amazed at her own capabilities in measuring drops, picking -up stitches, and writing notes. She also read aloud, and went endless -messages. Many a tiresome errand did she save Baker, and the cook; many -a toilsome journey did she make up those long flights of stairs: the -excuse for such constant perambulation, being, "that she was <i>young</i>!"</p> - -<p>At first, her visit had been spoken of as "temporary," Mrs. Taylor -and Miss Dolling being actively engaged in searching for a suitable -post for the interloper. The former, was particularly anxious to be -rid of this too useful, and obedient relative,—who accomplished her -tasks without complaint or murmur. The truth was, that Nancy had not -forgotten Mrs. De Wolfe's wise counsel, and inwardly soothed her <i>amour -propre</i> by saying to herself, "Aunt Arabella is Daddy's sister, and -I must try to please her; though lots of the things I have to do, -are hateful,—and Mrs. Taylor is more detestable than everything put -together!"</p> - -<p>Her most unwelcome task, was that of exercising the Pom twice daily on -a lead—a job that really belonged to Baker. He was a little animal -with an odious character,—and not a gentleman; quarrelsome, and -insulting to other dogs, shamelessly greedy and inquisitive, and with a -bark, that was almost worse than a bite!</p> - -<p>Meanwhile Nancy plodded along, buoyed up by hope and letters,—hope -that "Finchie" would be home in the spring, and find her a nice -situation—with payment. Here, naturally, she received no salary; her -wealthy aunt was in some ways surprisingly stingy; a miser with respect -to stamps, and extraordinarily mean in the matter of coal, electric -light, cab fares, and newspapers. As for the electric light, they often -sat in semi-darkness, and yet Mrs. Jenkins thought nothing of paying -from twenty to thirty guineas for a gown, or a shilling for a plover's -egg!</p> - -<p>Nancy's happiest moments were when the Indian mail arrived, and brought -her long despatches from "Finchie," from Francis, from the Hicks -family, and Teddy Dawson. The latter had once enclosed in a letter what -is known as a "fat" cheque, amounting to sixty-three pounds and some -odd shillings, which had been paid into Ted's account on her behalf by -Mayne. This cheque was promptly returned, and Nancy scribbled at white -heat, "I will not touch this money; please do not offer it again, or -ever mention Captain Mayne; all <i>that</i> is a dreadful dream, which I am -doing my best to <i>forget</i>."</p> - -<p>Letters from India were not the only ones addressed to Miss Travers -from the outer world. She had received a short note from Mrs. De Wolfe, -and several ill-spelt scrawls, indited by Mr. Fletcher's valet. He was -now living in a sanatorium in Switzerland, a confirmed invalid; indeed -the valet, who was a Scotchman, informed Nancy that his master was "far -through." Mr. Fletcher wished to hear how his little Nancy was faring? -if she had need of money, and if her aunt kept her well supplied? -otherwise she knew where to come for it. <i>He</i> would be her banker. But -poor as she was, Nancy preferred to be independent. A portion of her -savings, still remained intact.</p> - -<p>She sent frequent letters to her old friend, gratefully declining his -offer—telling him everything about herself, that she thought might -interest or please him,—carefully omitting all disagreeables; she -also added scraps of news, gleaned from her Indian correspondence; -in short, Nancy had the art of composing cheery epistles, which were -deeply appreciated by a sick, and solitary exile.</p> - -<p>In August, Mrs. Jenkins journeyed to Harrogate, bearing Nancy and -Baker in her train. The lady much preferred Scarborough, and cast many -wistful thoughts in that direction, but then Baker had a married sister -living at Harrogate, so there it was—or rather, there <i>she</i> was!</p> - -<p>Mrs. Jenkins stayed for several weeks at a fashionable hotel, consulted -a new doctor, sat about the gardens, sipped the waters, and compared -gossip and symptoms with her friends. During the latter part of the -visit, she allowed Nancy to spend a short time with Mrs. Briscoe at -Eastbourne, whilst Mrs. Taylor, who had been languishing in her poky -little flat, stepped nimbly into her shoes.</p> - -<p>Nine hundred, Queen's Gate, was reopened at the end of September. The -charwoman's parties came to an end, and the carriage horses no longer -took the coachman's friends to Hampton Court, Kew, or "the pictures." -Everything gradually settled into the usual routine, as far as Nancy -was concerned; exercising the Pom, changing the library books, shopping -at the Stores, and attending upon her relative.</p> - -<p>One afternoon, as laden with parcels, she re-entered the house, Galpin -handed her a card, on which was inscribed, "Mrs. De Wolfe, Newenham -Court. So very sorry to miss you." The card was presently followed by -a note, inviting Nancy to lunch with Mrs. De Wolfe at her hotel, but -this, alas! she was compelled to decline, as the date fixed, happened -to be her aunt's weekly "day," and she was on duty with the teapot.</p> - -<p>A second note from Mrs. De Wolfe, repeated her disappointment at not -seeing her young friend, especially as she was about to leave London, -in order to spend the winter in the West Indies. Her disappointment was -as nothing to Nancy's, for in her case, it was increased by despondency.</p> - -<p>Ever since her arrival, under her aunt's roof, Mrs. Taylor had been -ceaselessly endeavouring to remove her elsewhere. She had sought out, -and suggested several situations, but these on examination had not -proved to be satisfactory. One, was as an apprentice in a ladies' -blouse and hat shop—to assist in the showroom and workroom, hours -eight to six, dinner provided—no remuneration, but then "it was -such a good opening," that Mrs. Taylor was enthusiastic. Another -"opportunity," of which Nancy refused to avail herself, was as typist -to a rising young dentist—and to give some assistance with the -patients!</p> - -<p>"But I'm afraid of dentists, and I cannot type!" protested Nancy. "If -Aunt Arabella wishes, I can find a situation. Mrs. Briscoe will arrange -for me—she has offered to do so."</p> - -<p>Greatly to her friend's dismay, Mrs. Jenkins was not at present -disposed to part with her useful slave, and sternly commanded Henrietta -to postpone the search.</p> - -<p>Autumn passed without any particular change; Nancy developed into -a sort of extra lady's-maid, companion, secretary, and butt; Mrs. -Jenkins saw a good deal of company: when her health permitted she was -at home on "Tuesdays," and received many visitors,—as her teas were -proverbially well provided—fruit and ices, were not unknown. These -Tuesday afternoons, entailed weary hours for her niece, who stood -pouring out, handing cakes, and generally assisting Galpin.</p> - -<p>Mrs. Jenkins also gave occasional solemn dinners. These banquets -were usually attended by various elderly men of her acquaintance, -as she had a notable cook, and a famous bin of superior old port. -At such festivities, Nancy was not expected to appear; her mourning -was too deep. It was for this reason also, that Nancy was never -invited to accompany her relative to any place of amusement. Mrs. -Jenkins declared, that she could not possibly go into society for a -full twelve-month. Her idea on the subject of mourning, was strict, -and old-fashioned—mourning by the year,—crêpe by the yard. When -the banquets took place, Nancy wrote out the menus, and name cards, -arranged the flowers, and Bridge tables, and then thankfully retreated -to the breakfast-room with a novel, and the Pom.</p> - -<p>Sometimes she felt that this life was almost too difficult! Mrs. -Taylor's poisonous influence told heavily against her; her enemy was -so often with her in the Gate; she lunched or dined two or three times -a week,—and having a genuine appetite for small doles, carried away -fresh eggs, extra flowers, half-cut cakes, a box of scented soap, and -similar useful largesse! After her visits, Nancy always found her aunt -more than usually snappy, and ill to please; yet on the other hand, -Mrs. Jenkins had what her niece mentally called "her good days." On -these, she would talk glibly enough about her brother Laurence; his -mad pranks, his high spirits, his good looks, extraordinary love for -animals, and general popularity with old and young.</p> - -<p>It also seemed to the girl—who was gifted with a vivid -imagination—that now and then, in her aunt's conversation, she -caught a faint echo of familiar expressions, and that she saw at long -intervals on the face of her despotic relative, a glimmer of her -father's smile! For these somewhat far-fetched, and flimsy reasons, -Nancy still clung to her post. After all, Aunt Arabella, with her funny -ways, was her only <i>near</i> relative. She was Daddy's sister too, they -had been brought up in the very same nursery, and had shared the same -home.</p> - -<p>The talks of "old times" at Lambourne, were considerably discounted -by Mrs. Jenkins' rosy and prosy reminiscences of her own personal -triumphs. On this subject, she could expatiate for hours,—content with -a silent audience, or an occasional ejaculation.</p> - -<p>"I daresay, my dear," she remarked to her niece, "that your father -often told you, that I was the beauty of Blankshire, and how people -would stand upon the road to look at me, and push and fight each other, -to travel in the same railway carriage. The County ball was actually -postponed, until I had returned home. After I was married, when I had -a box at the theatre, it was most unpleasant the way the audience -stared—every opera-glass levelled at poor me—and people waited in the -vestibule, to see me pass out. Once when we were dining at a foreign -restaurant, the prince of a royal house, sent round to inquire my name? -Your uncle was furious, and I am sure it was the prince who sent me -every morning, a most beautiful bouquet of flowers!"</p> - -<p>She also related at considerable length, how several great artists had -humbly implored permission to paint her portrait, but had been rudely -snubbed by dearest Samuel: who had never allowed her picture to be on -public exhibition.</p> - -<p>Nancy listened with attentive interest to these tales of triumph, and -faithfully believed in them. It may have been due to this artless -confidence and appropriate deference, that she and her aunt were -perceptibly drawing closer to one another; Nancy would receive an -occasional kiss, a little patting of her hand, or even a word of -praise, and thanks.</p> - -<p>Alas, shortly before Christmas, a slump in Mrs. Taylor's dividends and -a severe financial crisis, figuratively cast that lady at the feet -of her wealthy school-fellow. Dearest Henrietta was received with -open arms, offered the best spare bedroom, the second best, and most -comfortable arm-chair, and soon settled down with remarkable ease into -the position of an established resident.</p> - -<p>Not long after this acquisition to the family circle, Mrs. Jenkins' -manner to her niece underwent a change; she became querulous and -fault-finding, and her "good days" were rare. Once, when the girl had -ventured to speak of her old home, her friends, the far-away blue -hills, and the coffee estate, Mrs. Taylor had coughed significantly, -and her aunt had said:</p> - -<p>"There, that will do, Nancy, that will do! I don't want to hear -anything about those people; I am not interested."</p> - -<p>As there were visitors present, Nancy was overwhelmed, and put to open -shame by such a resounding slap in the face. Perhaps, after all, it was -excellent discipline; Nancy the impulsive, was rapidly mastering the -noble art of self-effacement and self-control. Her sorest trial was -experienced of an evening, when Bridge was played, and Miss Dolling -made a fourth. The scoldings administered to Nancy—especially when -playing with Mrs. Taylor—made her so nervous that her mistakes were -flagrant. She had actually been known to trump her partner's best card; -more than once, she had been driven from the table in disgrace, and the -rubber had ended in "cut throat."</p> - -<p>Only for Mrs. Taylor (whose dislike amounted to personal enmity), Nancy -believed that her aunt would have given her a small share of her heart; -and for her own part, she made a great effort to storm her affections; -but her attempts were invariably foiled by the sinister influence of -Mrs. Taylor, who had marked "darling Arabella" for her own! She had -reason to believe that her name was in "the will"—and naturally the -fewer legatees the better!</p> - -<p>Arabella was so weak and impressionable, she might take it into -her head to make this niece her heiress! The girl was apparently -good-tempered, and willing—but in reality, cunning, and deceitful. -Arabella was of full habit; an apoplectic seizure might carry her off -in a few hours, and she (Henrietta Taylor) was bound to be on her -guard, and to take the situation firmly in hand. With this virtuous -intention, she made stinging speeches, transformed harmless remarks, -accused Nancy of untruth, and impertinence, and did her utmost to -figuratively crush her out of existence like a black beetle, and create -a wide breach between aunt and niece. Mrs. Taylor was particularly -careful never to leave the pair alone; a <i>tête-à-tête</i> was always -a serious danger to be avoided: precisely as if Mrs. Jenkins was a -lovely young heiress—and Nancy, some unprincipled and discountenanced -suitor! If by chance, she entered a room and there discovered the -girl established with her relative, she looked so alarmingly black -and lowering, that Nancy received an impression, that she had been -caught in the act of stealing something that was the property of Aunt -Arabella's old friend!</p> - -<p>On the other hand, when Nancy found the couple together, her appearance -was the signal for an abrupt and significant silence,—undoubtedly she -and her short-comings, had been the topic of conversation.</p> - -<p>In spite of this, Nancy had an instinctive impression that her aunt was -a little afraid of her towering, black-browed inmate; once, when she -made her a trifling and inexpensive present, she added:</p> - -<p>"Don't show it to Henrietta," and on several occasions, she had -whispered, "Not a word of <i>this</i>, to Mrs. T.!"</p> - -<p>Mrs. Taylor was now enjoying what might be called "the time of her -life." Of an afternoon, she accompanied her friend in the comfortable -landau, behind a pair of fat brown horses,—royally arrayed in a -superior, if secondhand, ermine stole, and muff. She was carried to -theatres, lectures, concerts, and At homes: was suffered to make the -first pounce upon new novels, enjoy breakfast in bed at pleasure,—and -glasses of port at discreet intervals. Moreover, she had been endowed -with several imposing costumes; and yet she was not happy! for Nancy -Travers represented "Mordecai the Jew," in Queen's Gate,—and until she -was dislodged, her enemy could know no peace.</p> - -<p>It was ten months since Nancy had arrived from India, ten months of -suppressed grief, hard work, and complete isolation. She had recovered -her health,—thanks to incessant occupation, early hours, and good -plain food. "The girl was picking up," as her aunt expressed it, and -once or twice, she had actually been moved to remark, that in Nancy's -now flawless skin, she saw something of "the family complexion!" -(meaning her own). In spite of "the family complexion," Nancy was not -treated as a relative, but an employée; her status in the establishment -was that of a superior "tweenie"; as time went on, there were no longer -any references to "old days at Lambourne," no affectionate pattings or -strokings, no confidences, or small gifts—much less a condescending -kiss.</p> - -<p>Mrs. Taylor made as much mischief as lay in her power, and fomented and -instigated "rows." She never gave her adversary credit for one good -trait, but held up all her short-comings, in the domestic limelight. -Late at night, when established at her ease in her friend's bedroom, -she "talked over" the iniquities of the day with unctuous eloquence.</p> - -<p>She (the chief parasite) loudly bewailed her poor darling Arabella's -fate, in being compelled to support a thankless hanger-on! Pointed out, -that Nancy was secretive, that she wrote too many letters, wasting -her time and stamps; that she was cruel to the Pom, and flirted with -the new doctor—even going so far as to lie in wait for him in the -hall! Every one of these indictments was a deliberate and inexcusable -falsehood; and perhaps Mrs. Jenkins, at the back of her mind, reminded -herself that Henrietta "exaggerated"; but at last, after many vigorous -efforts, Henrietta succeeded in rousing her effectually. One night, as -soon as she had settled herself for the usual talk, she began abruptly:</p> - -<p>"I do believe that girl has been complaining to Mrs. Devine, telling -her that she is miserable here,—at least, that is what <i>I</i> inferred, -from what Mrs. Devine said to me to-day. She was quite sniffy and -stand-off, and refused a cup of tea."</p> - -<p>"What did she say?" demanded Mrs. Jenkins fiercely.</p> - -<p>"She said, that it was noticed how Miss Travers always went about -alone; quite a well-known figure in Kensington Gardens, a tall girl in -mourning, taking a Pom for exercise. That she was never to be seen with -her aunt in the carriage, or at any place of amusement."</p> - -<p>"Why, of course not!" burst out Mrs. Jenkins; "her year of mourning is -not nearly up. What else?" she demanded dramatically.</p> - -<p>"That she appeared to have no young friends."</p> - -<p>"Is it likely, my good Henrietta, that I would allow my house to be -overrun and turned upside down by a pack of young people, simply to -amuse a girl who has to look to <i>me</i>, for her daily bread? I never -cared for Mrs. Devine, but I had intended to invite her to my next -large dinner-party. Now I shall cross her name off the list—she shall -eat no more dinners or luncheons, <i>here</i>!"</p> - -<p>"I should hope not!" said Mrs. Taylor emphatically, "for Mrs. Murray -told me privately, how Mrs. Devine had remarked to her, that the girl -was treated more like a servant, than a relative: said she was shabbily -dressed, neglected, and snubbed, and that if Miss Travers had a spark -of spirit, she would find another situation—and clear out!"</p> - -<p>This conversation proved extremely agitating to Mrs. Jenkins. It came -as a revelation; a shattering mental avalanche: that anyone among her -acquaintance should dare to find fault with <i>her</i>! The extraordinary -influence of Mrs. Taylor, was entirely due to her unfailing supply of -the most honeyed flattery! Misguided Arabella, was invariably told the -things she wished to hear, and lived under the impression, that she was -beyond the reach of criticism; everything she did was right; she had -felt complacently assured that her neighbours and friends unanimously -applauded her, for her benevolence in giving a home to her orphan niece!</p> - -<p>The recent exciting and unexpected information, brought on a sharp -attack of nervous palpitation.—Whenever Mrs. Jenkins was annoyed, -she immediately complained of "palpitation."—Mrs. Taylor had swift -recourse to the usual remedy, a bottle of drops—and as she handed the -wine-glass to her patroness, she said impressively:</p> - -<p>"Darling Arabella, you <i>know</i>, you will never have any comfort -or peace, until you get rid of that girl. She is accomplished, I -understand, and now she is nineteen, and looks years older than when -she arrived, surely her friend Mrs. Briscoe can find her a situation as -governess?"</p> - -<p>"No, no," protested Mrs. Jenkins, "I won't have that—Nancy is useful; -clever with her fingers, active on her feet; the Pom is fond of her, -and you know how few people <i>he</i> likes! Baker, too, though terribly -against Nancy at first, thinks her a nice young lady. Of course, I need -not tell you, that I never bargained for a girl in the house; and I -daresay I should be happier without her, but if I were to allow Nancy -to go away, and take a situation—just think of the <i>talk</i>!"</p> - -<p>"It would be much better to have one big talk,—and get it over," -declared Mrs. Taylor philosophically, "better to clear the air, than -to have perpetual whispering. Some people are never happy, unless they -are picking holes in such as you—whose shoes they are not fit to -clean. And now, dearest Arabella, I cannot bear to see you worried,—as -you know. If you could only make up your mind to let Nancy take a -situation, we should all be so <i>much</i> more comfortable. Remember she -is not actually your own niece; only your stepbrother's daughter. Do, -<i>do</i>, think it over—good-night, my own—darling!"</p> - -<p>"Good-night, Henrietta, and be sure you turn out the electric light on -your landing. Last week, you left it on all night, and just think of -how <i>that</i> will add to my quarterly bill!"</p> - -<hr class="chap" /> - -<h2>CHAPTER XVIII</h2> - -<h3>A RESCUE</h3> - - -<p>The winter had been long and dreary, and held no bright gleams for -Nancy, who was sensible of a continuous atmosphere of suppression and -oppression! It was now the capricious month of April, and in sympathy -with its showers, she secretly shed many tears. Mrs. Jenkins had -arrived at the definite decision, that her niece was "unsatisfactory"! -This expression had been specially coined by Mrs. Taylor, who put -it into daily currency. It was true that now and then the girl had -absented herself for an hour or two in the afternoon, taking prolonged -walks round the Park, or Kensington Gardens,—attended exclusively -by the Pom.—She wasted time in the Victoria and Albert Museum, the -Natural History Museum, and had even penetrated to the National Gallery!</p> - -<p>Also, she had found her tongue, and ventured to talk to and make -acquaintance with the elderly crowd assembled every Tuesday. More than -all, she had become careless! She had broken a pet vase, value three -francs, and—incredible enormity!—lost a library book—dropped it -into the street from the top of a motor-'bus. Her last misdeed was of -such gravity, that she had been formally summoned to the drawing-room, -there to appear before her judges, and be sharply reprimanded. As Mrs. -Jenkins, Miss Dolling, and Mrs. Taylor awaited the culprit, the latter -said:</p> - -<p>"My dear, you can see for yourself, how that girl is growing worse and -worse, and becoming more unsatisfactory every day."</p> - -<p>(It should be here explained, that Miss Dolling took a lenient view of -Nancy's delinquencies, and was on occasion her ineffectual champion. -She had even offered to take her to places of amusement—these -invitations never came to Nancy's ears—for Miss Dolling cherished -a mild, sentimental regard, for the daughter of her one and only -love,—whose photograph, enshrined in silver, she treasured as a sacred -relic).</p> - -<p>Nancy's latest misdeed was of far-reaching consequence. Detailed to -fetch her aunt's best transformation from the hairdressers' (where -recently it had been renovated), she had left it in the Tube; abandoned -it to the heartless jeers of railway officials, and the publicity of -the Lost Property Office! The truth was, that Nancy had that morning -heard of the death of Mr. Fletcher, and her thoughts were sad, and far -away, as she travelled to South Kensington.—This valuable work of hair -art, had cost no less than twelve guineas,—and what was poor Mrs. -Jenkins to wear that evening at dinner?</p> - -<p>The scolding had been so bitter, and impassioned, that Nancy's humility -had at last given way, and as, with heightened colour and shining eyes, -she seemed inclined to protest and expostulate, the enemy brought -heavier guns to bear.</p> - -<p>"Is it true?" demanded Mrs. Jenkins, sitting Buddha-like, with folded -arms, "that you write to young men?"</p> - -<p>"Yes," replied Nancy, "I do."</p> - -<p>"She couldn't deny it!" broke in Mrs. Taylor; "I've seen the letters -myself, lying upon the hall table."</p> - -<p>"And you smoke cigarettes up in your own room," she added.</p> - -<p>"Yes, occasionally," admitted the sinner.</p> - -<p>"And waste the electric light, reading in bed," resumed Mrs. Jenkins, -raising her voice with each accusation. "Mrs. Taylor saw the light -under your door after eleven o'clock at night!"</p> - -<p>"I do read in bed,—I've no time to read in the day," answered the girl -defiantly.</p> - -<p>"Keep your temper, miss!—that is not the way to speak to <i>me</i>," -shouted her aunt, in an angry voice.</p> - -<p>"No indeed, darling," chimed in Mrs. Taylor, "and after all you have -done for her—taken her in, when she was a penniless orphan, and——"</p> - -<p>"Yes," interrupted Mrs. Jenkins, "and I hear you have gone behind my -back, and complained to Mrs. Devine,—oh, you abominable, ungrateful, -double-faced minx!"</p> - -<p>"To Mrs. Devine?" repeated Nancy. "I have never spoken to her in my -life!"</p> - -<p>"I don't believe you!" declared the accuser, her face alarmingly -aflame; at this sharp crisis, the door was pushed open, and Galpin -announced:</p> - -<p>"Mrs. De Wolfe."</p> - -<p>Mrs. De Wolfe, handsomely dressed, and completely self-possessed, -walked forward to where Nancy stood before her accusers, and said in -her masculine bass:</p> - -<p>"Oh, my dear Nancy, I'm delighted to find you in at last! Pray -introduce me to your aunt?" and she glanced at Mrs. Taylor,—who was -still heaving with virtuous indignation.</p> - -<p>The atmosphere was heavily charged with electricity, and for a moment -Nancy was speechless. Then, hastily recovering herself:</p> - -<p>"This is my aunt, Mrs. Jenkins. Aunt Arabella, here is Mrs. De Wolfe, -with whom I travelled home in the <i>Patna</i>."</p> - -<p>The shock of such an unexpected interruption had suddenly sobered Mrs. -Jenkins: for a moment, she had been threatened with palpitation,—but -thrust the temptation aside. Recently, she had heard Mrs. De Wolfe -referred to as a woman of wealth and social importance; she therefore -made an effort to recover her poise, and accord her a gracious -reception. After a somewhat breathless and incoherent conversation with -her hostess, Mrs. De Wolfe turned to Nancy.</p> - -<p>"Have you been here ever since you came home?"</p> - -<p>"Yes," she replied, and then boldly added: "I have not taken a -situation yet; but I intend to see about one immediately," and she -looked straight at her aunt, who encountered her gaze with sullen -hostility.</p> - -<p>This unexpected reinforcement by Mrs. De Wolfe had given Nancy a -species of ephemeral, or "Dutch" courage.</p> - -<p>"Oh, are you, my dear? But before you arrange anything definite, I hope -you will come and pay me a little visit. I am staying for a couple of -weeks at Brown's Hotel, in Dover Street, and shall be glad to have your -company at once."</p> - -<p>The eyes of Mrs. Jenkins and Mrs. Taylor met; their expression was -significant.</p> - -<p>"You are very kind," replied the former, now addressing her visitor, -"but my niece is not leaving me—as far as <i>I</i> am aware—but I shall be -pleased to spare her to you, for a few days."</p> - -<p>"Thank you very much," replied Mrs. De Wolfe. "Then if you will allow -me, I will call for her to-morrow."</p> - -<p>At this moment other visitors were announced, and Nancy's ally rose and -took leave. As she pressed the girl's hand she murmured:</p> - -<p>"Had you not better come down with me to the hall,—and see that I -don't carry off the umbrellas?"</p> - -<p>On the landing, she halted opposite the stuffed dog, and said:</p> - -<p>"My poor dear child! The door was ajar, and I heard every word about -the cigarettes, the electric light, the reading in bed, the penniless -orphan, and Mrs. Devine. What people! As for the big, dark woman, with -the red face, positively she frightened me!—she is like a Gorgon!"</p> - -<p>"I was getting on all right until just before Christmas when Mrs. -Taylor arrived," replied Nancy; "she is dreadfully poor; she hates me, -and thinks I am an interloper, and a fortune-hunter. Ever since she -came into the house, Aunt Arabella is completely changed."</p> - -<p>"I intend that you shall be completely changed," declared Mrs. De -Wolfe. "Oh, I must go! I see the man is waiting at the door. I'll call -for you to-morrow before twelve o'clock,—and I think you had better -bring most of your luggage."</p> - -<p>A visit to Mrs. De Wolfe proved a change indeed. Nancy felt another -creature, living in another atmosphere, and another city. Oh, the -blessed relief, from hearing the ponderous tread of Mrs. Taylor, -Galpin's pompous announcements, and the Pom's maddening bark!</p> - -<p>She and her hostess shopped in the mornings, motored in the afternoons, -and at night, went to concerts, lectures, and the theatre. Within a -few days, it had been decided, that Nancy was to be Mrs. De Wolfe's -companion for the present,—and to receive sixty pounds a year, on -which to dress. Already the girl had felt the stimulating effects of a -new and fashionable outfit!</p> - -<p>"Without flattering myself, I think I may say, that you will be happier -with <i>me</i>, than with Mrs. Jenkins," observed her benefactress; "though -I am by no means an angel! Every character has its odd corners, its -limits, and its secrets. You are too young to harbour any secrets -yet—whilst I have dozens!"</p> - -<p>She also added, that later, should anything more satisfactory turn -up, Nancy was not to consider herself bound in any way; and so the -arrangement, or engagement, was concluded—an engagement which existed -for little more than a week.</p> - -<p>One afternoon, Nancy, who had just returned from the Park, was -informed, that someone who had brought a message, particularly wanted -to see her, and she was a good deal surprised, when the door of the -sitting-room was opened, and no less a person than Galpin emerged from -the passage. He was surprised, too,—as he subsequently confessed, when -he imparted particulars of his visit to the lady's maid.</p> - -<p>"There was Miss Travers, looking like another girl! her hair all -fluffed out, wearing a great big hat covered with feathers—quite the -fashionable young lady. I declare to you, Miss Baker, I hardly knew -her!"</p> - -<p>Galpin, who carried a packet of letters in his hand, peered cautiously -round the room, made a stiff little bow, coughed, and said:</p> - -<p>"Mrs. Jenkins sent me over special with these letters for you, Miss. -She said, there was one that looked like a business matter, and is -anxious to know what it is all about? She thinks, as you have been -doing secretary work for her—that maybe there's a mistake in the -name—as it's from a firm of lawyers. I was to bring back the letter, -Miss, and to give Mrs. Jenkins' love, and to tell you how the Pom -misses you."</p> - -<p>Nancy received and hastily examined the letters. The Indian Mail was -in. There was a thick one from Finchie, a thin one from Nellie Meach, -and a postcard from Francis, on which was inscribed, "The dog Togo -is too well." Besides these, one was in a blue envelope, on the flap -of which was printed, the name of a legal firm. She sat down to open -this,—in order to at once satisfy her aunt; whilst Galpin waited, hat -in hand, with an air of respectful curiosity.</p> - -<p>As Nancy glanced over the neatly-written lines, she faintly grasped an -almost incredible fact. Mr. Fletcher's will had recently been read; he -had endowed her with Fairplains, and an income of two thousand a year! -This was the substance of what she gathered, through a maze of legal -expressions. For a moment, she imagined that she must be dreaming. Then -she slowly went over the pages, and noted, that the firm requested an -immediate interview, and that one of their clerks would wait upon her -at an hour, and date, to be hereafter fixed.</p> - -<p>For a moment or two she sat motionless, endeavouring to collect her -faculties; then, with considerably heightened colour, she raised her -head, and looked up at Galpin,—who almost conveyed the impression that -he was in attendance at table, and waiting to remove her plate!</p> - -<p>"Please tell Aunt Arabella, that the letter was really for me, and -contains good news. I will write to her to-night."</p> - -<p>"Very well, Miss. Is that all—ahem—<i>no</i> particulars?" Galpin's tone -expressed extreme disappointment.</p> - -<p>"No particulars," rising as she spoke; "good afternoon, Galpin, I think -you can find your way down," and she indicated the door.</p> - -<p>As soon as this had closed behind Galpin's broad back, Nancy, letter in -hand, rushed into Mrs. De Wolfe's bedroom. The old lady, who had only -recently come in, was changing her boots, assisted by the invaluable -Haynes.</p> - -<p>"I've just had this," announced the girl breathlessly. "Aunt Arabella -sent it over by Galpin; she wanted so much to know what it was all -about? Do look at it—and tell me if you think it's <i>real</i>?"</p> - -<p>Mrs. De Wolfe hastily dismissed her maid, and with one boot on, and one -boot off, assumed her glasses and deliberately studied the letter; then -she looked up at Nancy, and said:</p> - -<p>"An heiress, I declare! My dear, I congratulate you. I <i>am</i> glad."</p> - -<p>"Do you think it's true? I can hardly believe it! Oh, I feel I'd like -to run about, and tell the whole hotel of my wonderful good fortune. -It's not the money so much,—but Fairplains—how splendid of Mr. -Fletcher, and oh, if father were only alive!"</p> - -<p>"Fairplains. Yes, it was your father's once, now it is yours; you -were born there, and love it; but a solid income is a satisfactory -fact. Well, now you are independent, and can engage a companion—or a -chaperone."</p> - -<p>"I want to stay with you!"</p> - -<p>"But what will Mrs. Jenkins say?" and Mrs. De Wolfe laughed. "How I -should like to see her face, when she hears that you are no longer 'a -penniless orphan!'"</p> - -<p>When Mrs. Jenkins received the news, she was so startled, and upset, -that she felt compelled to ring for Baker to bring her some special -heart drops; and yet she was gratified in a way. To have a niece who -was an heiress, increased—if that were possible—her sense of her -own importance. Mrs. Taylor was also gratified. There would now be -no question of the return of Nancy to Queen's Gate; no fear of her -inheriting Mrs. Jenkins' substantial fortune; she would without further -exertions, have the house, and the, so to speak, "field" to herself.</p> - -<p>When the heiress arrived to pay her formal visit to Queen's Gate, she -found her aunt in her most agreeable temper. Nancy might almost have -been a titled acquaintance, so effusive was her welcome! After a few -preliminaries, she said:</p> - -<p>"Well, Nancy, so you've come in for a coffee estate, and a large sum of -money! That is nice for you."</p> - -<p>"I suppose there's no fear of the will being disputed?" said Mrs. -Taylor—ever ready with disagreeable suggestions.</p> - -<p>"I think not," replied the heiress. "I remember Mr. Fletcher telling -us, that he was the last of his family."</p> - -<p>"You won't know what to do with all your money," declared Mrs. Jenkins -with a complacent smile. "Of course you will return <i>here</i>."</p> - -<p>"Return!" repeated the girl blankly.</p> - -<p>"Why, certainly, you must live with <i>me</i>; it is your natural home. It -would be most extraordinary if you did not! What would people say? I am -your only near relative. You will be putting off your mourning, and -I shall take you out this season,—and perhaps give a dance for you. -You shall have a room on the next floor,—and I daresay you can keep a -maid."</p> - -<p>Mrs. Taylor's face clouded over as she listened to these luxurious -arrangements. How close Arabella had been; the sly old thing had never -dropped a word of these plans, during their nightly conferences.</p> - -<p>"Thank you, Aunt Arabella," replied Nancy, "but I am going to travel -with Mrs. De Wolfe. We shall probably be abroad for a year. I have -never been on the Continent; and I think we shall start as soon as the -lawyers have finished with my affairs."</p> - -<p>"That is a monstrous idea; I shall not give my consent," declared her -aunt with a very pink face. "Mrs. De Wolfe is a complete stranger. -Ten days, or a fortnight, is all very well, but you cannot go about -the world with a woman who is nothing to you beyond being a fellow -passenger. It would be most unseemly. Remember that you are not of age -yet,—and have no right to do just as you please."</p> - -<p>"I see no objection," murmured Nancy.</p> - -<p>"You see <i>me</i>," announced Mrs. Jenkins with emphasis, "<i>I</i> am the -objection. You cannot deny, that I stand to you in the place of a -parent—that I have received you,—and adopted you"—here she paused to -sneeze.</p> - -<p>"I was not aware that you had adopted me, Aunt Arabella; and I think I -had better say at once, that I should be sorry to have any disagreement -with you, but I cannot admit that you have any right to control me. -Mrs. De Wolfe and I, are starting for Italy in a few days, and this -visit is not merely to tell you about my plans,—but to say good-bye."</p> - -<p>"My dear, I think Nancy is <i>very</i> wise," proclaimed Mrs. Taylor, -advancing unexpectedly to her rescue. "You know, that she has seen -nothing of the world as yet; and she is so young; the tour will -complete her education. Mrs. De Wolfe is a friend of the dear -Foresters, and the aunt of Lady Bincaster, <i>quite</i> all that she ought -to be! Judging by my own feelings, I am sure that Nancy would not care -to go into company yet; and anyway, the state of your health could -never stand the strain of playing chaperone, and keeping late hours. -Now <i>could</i> it?" laying her heavy hand upon her friend's fat arm. "Of -course we all know, that you are always only <i>too</i> ready to sacrifice -yourself for others; but your friends could never permit you to -undertake, what would be practically, a sort of prolonged suicide!"</p> - -<p>"Well, I suppose there is something in what you say," admitted Mrs. -Jenkins, after a moment's reflection, reluctantly releasing the vision -of a wealthy niece on show—and so to speak, bearing her own train.</p> - -<p>Indeed, such was the effect of Mrs. Taylor's soothing, and cooling -remarks, that by degrees, her old school-fellow recovered her temper -and complacency. She talked about the Continent, of her triumphal -progress through various cities, and related the tale of a tragic -experience in the Tyrol, where it had been whispered "that a gallant -young Austrian officer had precipitated himself from a mountain peak, -solely on her account!"</p> - -<p>After half an hour's discourse,—chiefly reminiscent,—Mrs. Jenkins had -talked herself into a condition of the utmost good humour, and with -the promises of letters, and many picture postcards, the visitor was -permitted to take leave.</p> - -<p>As Nancy departed, she noticed Baker peering at her over the banisters, -and nodded to her affably, as she descended the stairs,—on which she -had made many weary journeys—also it seemed to her, that Galpin the -pompous, held the hall door extra wide, and was impressively benignant, -as she passed forth.</p> - -<hr class="chap" /> - -<h2>CHAPTER XIX</h2> - -<h3>"A MYSTERY ABOUT MAYNE——"</h3> - - -<p>More than two years had elapsed since Derek Mayne left Fairplains. -Almost immediately afterwards, his regiment had been removed from -Cananore, to the distant cantonment of Bareilly,—a station which -instead of lying on the damp seaboard of the Malabar Coast, was -situated in the heart of a sugar cane district, with the white -Himalayas glimmering on its horizon. Here, in hard work, and strenuous -play, parades, manœuvres, inspections, cricket, polo, and fishing in -the Sardar, time passed only too rapidly; thanks to new surroundings, -new friends, and incessant occupation, the memory of Nancy became a -little blurred.</p> - -<p>Mayne recalled her existence, when he dispatched his half-yearly cheque -to Teddy Dawson; for although his friend had assured him, that the -money would lie untouched, nevertheless he persisted in lodging the -amount at Grindlays. Teddy had volunteered the news, that Nancy was now -living in London, with her father's sister; but of this information, -Mayne vouchsafed no notice, and correspondence, save for the bi-annual -cheque, had completely lapsed. The yearly sum of two hundred and -fifty pounds,—which was half of his private income,—left Mayne -somewhat pinched in his finances. To keep a couple of ponies, to go on -fishing, and shooting trips, required a certain number of rupees; and -occasionally Captain Mayne found considerable difficulty in making both -ends meet! His brother officers wondered why the deuce Mayne was now so -economical? and what he had done with his money?</p> - -<p>An incredible story had leaked out through Mayne's Madras servant—who -had accompanied him to the Hills; it whispered, that when there, he had -got into some sort of entanglement with a girl! This tale was frankly -discussed, and believed, in the Gorrah bazaar at Cananore, but had -never risen in any substantial form to higher circles,—such as the -club or mess; and yet all the time, though nothing was said, there -was a vague uneasy feeling, that Mayne was keeping back some incident -or experience, connected with his six week's leave on that coffee -plantation. It was noticed, how, although he had apparently enjoyed -extraordinarily good sport, he was strangely reserved with regard to -his hill friends; rarely referred to his expedition, and sat dumb when -other fellows less successful, loudly bragged of their "shikar."</p> - -<p>Also it had been remarked, that when he returned from the Neilgherries, -he had appeared to be extraordinarily depressed, and that Mayne always -such a cheery fellow, with lots to say for himself, hadn't a word to -throw to the traditional dog. Former enthusiastic letters received by -his friends, describing his delightful quarters, his first-class sport, -were subsequently discounted, by a mysterious, and significant silence. -One surprising fact, had been much discussed; Mayne was just the -ordinary young man, and not in the least eccentric, and yet when his -trophies were unpacked, displayed and praised (two magnificent tiger -and three panther skins, all in first-class condition), as the largest -panther skin was unrolled, he seemed strangely put out, and gave a -hasty order to his bearer. Later, but four skins were exhibited, and -when the fifth was inquired for, the bearer promptly answered that "the -Sahib had given orders, that it was to be taken away and <i>burnt</i>!"</p> - -<p>In a small Mofussil station such as Cananore, topics of conversation -are but scanty. There was a good deal of talk and conjecture, -respecting this same panther. Why had Mayne ordered such a prize to -be destroyed? Why could he not have given it to someone—if he had a -particular down upon the animal?—the Colonel's wife would have been -proud to accept its skin.</p> - -<p>No satisfactory answer to this was obtained at the time, but later, it -became known that Mayne's friend, the coffee planter, had died, as the -result of an encounter with a panther; it was conceded that possibly -<i>that</i> was the reason of Mayne's agitation, and the order for the -destruction of an unusually fine trophy.</p> - -<p>Skin or no skin, there was some mystery connected with Mayne's visit -to the Neilgherries. Since then, he had been obviously short of money, -and given to unwonted economy. He drank cheap claret, refused himself -a new rifle, and another polo pony. A hard player like Mayne, found it -difficult to manage with less than three. Whatever the trouble was, -he did not avoid society; he was popular with women; his good looks -and good manners, made him a general favourite. He went to dances -and picnics, was conspicuous in gymkhanas, and every afternoon, when -nothing was "on," he played rackets or tennis at the club. Once or -twice, when a particularly active girl happened to be his tennis -partner, he recalled Nancy,—not one of the lot could approach her as -far as play was concerned. Who would have believed that her thin brown -arm and wrist, was capable of such smashing strokes, and disastrous -service?</p> - -<p>Mayne had now been three years in India, and never exhibited any -intention of taking leave home. Apparently he preferred an excursion -into Thibet, or Cashmere. At the back of his mind, he had a conviction, -that as long as he remained in the country, he was safe from any -awkward developments that might result from the ceremony which had -taken place in the drawing-room at Fairplains.</p> - -<p>Yet at the same time, he had an impression that some day, like murder, -it would all come out,—and there would be a holy row! Meantime he -thrust the hateful prospect into the lumber room of his brain; the -poignant memories of the last week of Travers' life had now become -a little dim. Supposing he had held back, and not suffered himself -to be moved by an exceptionally tragic situation: by Mrs. Hicks' -observations, and carried away by an almost irresistible impulse? he -could have guaranteed an acceptable income to Nancy, which would have -left them both free!</p> - -<p>Now, they were bound together by that deadly certificate in his -despatch box, on which were inscribed the names of Eleanora Nancy -Travers, spinster, and Derek Danvers Mayne, bachelor. Nothing but death -could release them. Occasionally plunged in contemplation, he would let -his mind work; endeavouring to trace some way out of this desperate -situation. His thoughts would travel to and fro, as in a maze,—vainly -seeking some safe, and honourable exit. Sometimes, during these moods -of reflection, his companion for the moment, would wonder at Mayne's -abstraction? Once or twice, he had been offered "a penny for his -thoughts," but had invariably dismissed the offer with a laugh.</p> - -<p>Finally summing up the affair, he assured himself that some day or -other—perhaps in twenty years—the whole business must be disclosed. -Supposing Nancy wanted to marry someone?—supposing he were to meet -<i>the</i> girl, and fall in love with her? what a complication that would -be! After all, the present was calm and peaceful, he could discern no -clouds on the horizon, and soothed his uneasiness, with the well-worn -sedative,—"Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof."</p> - -<p>Such were Mayne's sentiments, when he received a cable from home, -informing him that his uncle had met with a serious accident, and -begging him to return at once. As there could be but one answer to such -an appeal, Mayne instead of taking his intended sixty days' shooting -leave into Garwalb, immediately applied for three months to England—on -"urgent private affairs."</p> - -<hr class="chap" /> - -<h2>CHAPTER XX</h2> - -<h3>NEW SCENES AND NEW FRIENDS</h3> - - -<p>Nancy and her chaperone spent a year on the Continent, visiting several -capitals, and various scenes familiar to Mrs. De Wolfe. Not a few -foreign hostelries knew and respected the dominating personality, and -heavy purse, of this hawk-eyed "bird of passage."</p> - -<p>Nancy was now twenty. Like a flower she had expanded in the sun of -happiness, and developed into a strikingly beautiful girl. The mahogany -tint had given place to a matchless complexion: her figure no longer -boyish and angular, was slender and graceful, her dress was dainty, -and she carried herself admirably. After a long and complete eclipse, -Nancy's vitality and vivacity had returned with undiminished vigour: -the girl was never tired, idle, bored, or—silent; the mere fact of -her presence, seemed to neutralize weariness and depression. Yet the -death of her father was a never forgotten grief; he stood apart, as the -one impressive, and beloved figure connected with her life in India. -Memories of Finchie, the "Corner boys," and the Hicks', had become a -little faint; as for the acquaintance of a mere six weeks, she had -thrust him entirely out of her mind. At first, like some pernicious and -persistent insect, he had returned again and again; but for many months -she had been free from this hateful visitation.</p> - -<p>Possibly when a young woman determines to evict from her thoughts a -disagreeable lodger—such banishment is complete. Nancy had assured a -quaking heart, that the ceremony of her marriage might be dismissed to -the limbo of a bad dream. It had been carried out solely to comfort and -relieve the anxiety of her dying father; but as a binding contract, -Finchie had positively declared, that it could be easily annulled.</p> - -<p>It was more than two years since Nancy had heard of Captain Mayne, -"out of sight, is out of mind," especially as her mind was full to -overflowing of new scenes, new interests, and new friends.</p> - -<p>During their wanderings, Mrs. De Wolfe had encountered various -neighbours, acquaintances, and connections. Her circle was world wide. -At the Hôtel National, Lucerne, she came across the Miller family,—who -lived within a motor drive of her home in Moonshire.</p> - -<p>Truly, it was a strange and startling tale that Lady Miller poured -into the ear of her neighbour, when she had carried her off to her own -apartment, and could there talk without restraint! It appeared that -the four Miss Millers, had combined to break loose, had cast off all -obedience, and so to speak, flung the fourth commandment to the winds! -Headed by Wilhelmina—the eldest—they revolted against home life, -and clamoured to be taken abroad, in order to see something of what -they called, "the world." "Wilhelmina," continued Lady Miller, "has an -iron will and enormous influence over her father. It took her a whole -fortnight to gain her point, at the end Lucas yielded, and, my dear old -friend, I know you will pity us, for 'here we are!'"</p> - -<p>Yes, Wilhelmina's triumph had been remorseless, and complete!</p> - -<p>Glancing round the luxurious bedroom, whose windows commanded a fine -view of the lake, Mrs. De Wolfe was not disposed to offer much sympathy -to the lachrymose lady.</p> - -<p>"Of course I don't approve of the present ordinance," she said: -"Parents obey your children, but possibly a little change may be no -harm for any of you. Your girls are grown up. Why! Billy must be six -and twenty! The twins are a charming couple, and so far, have been born -to blush unseen! Millfield Place <i>is</i> rather isolated, and surely you -would not wish to have four old maids on your hands,—now <i>would</i> you?"</p> - -<p>"<i>I'm</i> no husband-hunter," declared Lady Miller with considerable -warmth, "and if girls are to be married, they'll <i>be</i> married."</p> - -<p>"Well, that depends on circumstances! I remember an Irish servant who -gave, as her reason for leaving an excellent, but dull situation, that -'she was out of the way of Providence.' I think there is the same -drawback to Millfield."</p> - -<p>Millfield Place was situated in a remote part of Moonshire, and in -the days of Charles II., it had been the nucleus of many a robust -and rollicking festivity: but time works changes, the Place was now -generally referred to, as the "Back of Beyond." It was six miles -from the nearest railway station: on the mere outer fringe of County -Society, and to many of the rustics in Millfield village, the word -"pictures" or "telephone" carried no meaning! Here years had passed -swiftly—as they generally do, when spent in an uneventful, and -monotonous round.</p> - -<p>The four Miss Millers were endowed with an unusual amount of good -looks, and intelligence; Wilhelmina, the eldest and heiress, was small, -active, clever and outspoken: with a heart that knew no fear, and -full of devotion to her sisters. Minna and Brenda (twins) were tall, -vivacious and very fair to see. Amy, the youngest, aged twenty, had a -wonderful mop of dark red hair, a pair of twinkling sea-green eyes, and -uncontrollable spirits; she was still addressed as "Baby!"</p> - -<p>For some years, the sisters had contented themselves with tennis, -the sewing club, village entertainments, and the rearing of prize -poultry; and then Wilhelmina, when her twenty-sixth birthday struck, -began seriously to consider the situation. As alone she paced the -long terrace, she held a solemn debate with herself, and this was the -burden of her meditations: "Here we are embedded in the country, and -growing into fossils. We haven't even a motor—because mother loathes -them! We never see a soul, except the same old set, the Rector and Mrs. -Puddock, Doctor and Mrs. Frost, father's elderly shooting friends; and -once in a blue moon, the Hillsides, or Mrs. De Wolfe. Other girls go -about, and visit new places, make new acquaintances, and have a good -time; and we are young but once! I shall urge the Pater to transport -us all to the Continent, for one whole year. If he resists, and won't -listen to reason, I shall just tell him, we will leave home; the twins -to go on the Stage,—front row,—Baby, to an A B C shop, and I to be -a stewardess; I know I should love the sea,—which by the way, I have -never seen!"</p> - -<p>When Wilhelmina cautiously opened the subject to her mother, that -lethargic matron was almost as startled as if a bomb had exploded -on the hearth-rug! When she had recovered her senses (momentarily -paralysed), with unusual animation, she expressed indignant horror at -the mere suggestion of such a move. She pointed out to Billy that she -and her sisters were extraordinarily fortunate; they had carriages, -maids, saddle-horses; and every possible indulgence; the newest library -books, a handsome dress allowance; what more did they want? Besides, -how could such a pack of girls go dragging about the Continent! -Certainly she would be no party to the crazy undertaking. Of course if -they had been <i>boys</i>, it might have been different!</p> - -<p>"Yes!" retorted Billy, "boys always get everything they want, and girls -go to the wall."</p> - -<p>"Well, boys or girls, nothing will induce <i>me</i> to leave my comfortable -home," declared Lady Miller. "Paris, Switzerland, Egypt!" slightly -raising her voice, "why, Wilhelmina, you must be mad! You know -perfectly well, that I've not been even to London, for more than two -years."</p> - -<p>Lady Miller, a pretty, plaintive, fragile-looking woman, had been -a celebrated beauty in her day,—but was now disposed to rest -on such laurels, as remained. She relinquished visiting, and -entertaining—beyond a small tennis party, or a few neighbours to -tea,—pleading the state of her health; which, as it happened, was -excellent; but the poor woman suffered from the dire and mortal malady -of inertia; which is known to attack victims who live remote, and -idle. The disease had grown from bad to worse, and Lady Miller had -now abandoned herself to an existence of self-indulgent indolence. -She was contented with her comfortable sofa, her embroidery, novels, -patience cards, visits from newsmongering matrons,—and on fine days, -an inspection of her celebrated rock garden! Wilhelmina had relieved -her mother of all housekeeping worries: she managed the school, the -village,—and her father.</p> - -<p>The younger girls were amusing, chattering creatures: fond of racing -through the rooms, banging doors, and bringing in dogs, but remarkably -pretty—especially Brenda, who at times, was almost startlingly lovely! -Once or twice, Lady Miller had murmured to her husband "that she -wished Brenda's rich godmother would invite her to pay her a visit in -London,"—and her husband had accorded an indifferent assent—<i>he</i> did -not wish to part with <i>any</i> of his girls.</p> - -<p>Sir Lucas Miller was an active, fussy, little gentleman of fifty-five, -whose time was absorbed by tenants, shooting, the county club, and the -Bench! Little did he suspect, how soon the pleasant current of his days -was to be diverted. One evening after dinner,—a particularly good -dinner,—the bold, adventurous, and <i>cunning</i> Wilhelmina, accompanied -him to the smoking-room, and as he enjoyed a Havana, calmly proceeded -to lay her plans before him.</p> - -<p>Everything had been most carefully considered: the whole itinerary -minutely sketched; reasons for the expedition were confidently -advanced, and dilated on, and when at last, Wilhelmina had ceased -to speak, she discovered that her communication had left her father -speechless! For quite a surprising interval, he remained silent,—Sir -Lucas was thinking things over! He liked to see his pretty, lively -girls flitting about the house and tennis courts, but it had never once -dawned on him, that they craved either change, or other diversions. -"Why, they had the Hunt Ball in January,—weather permitting,—the -cricket week in July,—also weather permitting!"</p> - -<p>In his opinion, they were remarkably well off; and as Billy, his -favourite, had carefully unfolded her schemes, he could scarcely -believe his own ears.</p> - -<p>"Close the house for twelve months! take you all abroad!" he cried at -last. "What a monstrous idea. How about the estate, and the shooting?"</p> - -<p>"You have an excellent agent, Dad, I've often heard you say so,—and -now you may as well give him something to do. You know you're one of -the people who keep a dog,—and bark yourself!"</p> - -<p>"Rubbish! rubbish! preposterous nonsense!"</p> - -<p>"I know you won't mind, dear, if I speak a little plainly. Looking -at it from our point of view, do you think you are quite playing the -game? You and the Mater have had your good times! You talk of Ascot, -Scotland, and Paris; of dances and balls, operas, and races. Now <i>we</i> -should like to be in a position, to enjoy the same experiences. We are -very ready to be amused: or even employed; but there is not enough -work here for the four of us. Are we always to content ourselves with -visiting old women, rearing Buff Orpingtons, and finding our chief -excitement in scraps of village news! Why, it was only yesterday, that -Baby ran the whole way home, to tell us that the Postman's parrot -was dead! <i>I</i> can jog along all right, I'm not in my first youth, -and I never was pretty; and being the eldest, I can find plenty of -occupation, and interest of sorts; but, dear Daddy, <i>do</i> consider the -three girls; please think of what I've said," and Wilhelmina patted her -parent encouragingly on the shoulder, and walked out of the room.</p> - -<p>In the end, after some remarkably stormy scenes, Billy prevailed; for -Billy, as her mother complained, "could twist her father round her -little finger." Then what Brenda termed, the "great Exodus of the -Millers" actually took place, and poor Lady Miller found herself with -her husband, four daughters, two maids and a mountain of luggage, -carried off to Paris; and from Paris they journeyed to Lucerne.</p> - -<p>At Lucerne, to his audible consternation, Sir Lucas was thrust -into the too prominent post of chaperon—his wife having declared -that her health was not equal to society. Nevertheless, she took a -certain amount of comfort in a sofa, her lace work, and patience -cards,—although the rock-garden, was far, far away!</p> - -<p>At first, Sir Lucas instinctively shrank from following five grown-up -women into a dining-room, or restaurant; but most of his party were so -handsome as to draw all eyes, and in this fact, he found considerable -compensation; also, when he beheld other men doing similar duty, he -became more resigned; and by and by actually began to enjoy this -amazing, and absolute change! He and his girls played golf on the -Sonnenberg, and made excursions, whilst her ladyship and maid, sat in -the shade, listening to the band, or ventured on a little shopping, -purchasing Swiss embroidery, and Italian tortoise-shell.</p> - -<p>In spite of their already large party, the Miller girls good-naturedly -invited Nancy to join them. She and Billy became immediate allies, and -on the Sonnenberg links, laid the foundation of a lasting friendship.</p> - -<p>"We are such a squad of women," she said to Nancy, "but it had to be -all, or none; people get used to us, and find we are quite rural, -and harmless. I think Mr. Holford, and Major Berners are becoming -accustomed to Minna and Brenda, and I'm not the least surprised. At -home, we thought little of their good looks! They were just nice, -cheery, accomplished, girls. Minna has a lovely voice; but here, they -stand out as beauties, and the Pater looks as proud as a peacock with -two tails! They are the prettiest girls in Lucerne, bar yourself!"</p> - -<p>"Oh, what nonsense!" Nancy protested, but Billy signed to her that she -was about to make a drive, and thereby closed the argument!</p> - -<p>At the Grand Hotel, Locarno, Mrs. De Wolfe again encountered -neighbours; Lord and Lady Hillside, their son, and daughter; these were -not merely neighbours, but connections,—and not only connections, but -friends! It turned out, that Lord Hillside and Mrs. Ffinch were brother -and sister, and on the strength of her intimacy with a relative, Nancy -was welcomed by the family.</p> - -<p>Lady Hillside had been an heiress: her fortune had paid off heavy -mortgages on the estate, and repaired the dilapidated castle. So -flourishing now were the Hillside concerns, that Theodore Lamerton, the -heir, a young man in the Guards, was looked upon as a desirable parti. -His mother, was a little woman with a yellow, haggard face, in which -burned a pair of jet black eyes,—eyes of the reformer and fanatic.</p> - -<p>Lady Hillside was feverishly energetic, and full of philanthropic -plans: her name was well known on Boards, and Committees, and she -cherished a secret passion for being, what is called "Chair." Her -interests abroad, were so wide, and so various, that she could spare -but little time for her own family;—in fact, she was something of an -aristocratic Mrs. Jellaby. Her correspondence was enormous; she kept -two secretaries, but rarely looked into her housekeeper's accounts—or -answered what might be termed "a domestic letter."</p> - -<p>Recently her health had broken down from overwork, and a specialist had -ordered her abroad, with strict injunctions, as to absolute rest. Rest -was impossible to a woman of her temperament! It was true that she now -left correspondence in abeyance, but she was actively engaged in making -a wonderful collection of seals and rings,—which enterprise carried -her far, and wide.</p> - -<p>Lord Hillside, a handsome, bearded individual, a great authority on -Egyptology, lived much to himself, and took his walks apart. With his -chiselled aquiline features and well-trimmed beard, he might almost -have passed for an Egyptian Tetrarch himself. Next to Egyptology—and -Rameses the Second, his chief interest in life was his daughter -Josephine Speyde, a widow of eight and twenty. "Josie," as she -was called, had not inherited the family good looks, but had been -endowed with some of her father's brains, and more of her mother's -inexhaustible energy,—which in her case, took the form of a tireless -pursuit of amusement. In appearance she was thin, and hipless; her -complexion was sallow; a pair of magnificent black eyes illuminated -a long, but expressive countenance. Such was her art in dress, and -deportment, that she actually persuaded her world, that she was as -handsome as she was amusing, and otherwise attractive. Married at -twenty to a distant cousin, the alliance had proved unfortunate, and as -Josie herself confessed, "they had found one another out too <i>soon</i>." -She was restless, capricious, and extravagant: Victor Speyde was -dissipated, ill-tempered, and jealous.</p> - -<p>The relatives put their heads together, and predicted "<i>trouble</i>," -but the death of Captain Speyde in a motor accident, relieved their -apprehensions, and liberated his wife. As a widow, with an independent -income, she returned to live with her parents,—a changed young woman, -who had seen the seamy side of life; she rode hard, smoked incessantly, -and had the reputation for a keen appetite for adventure, and stories, -more or less risky! Mrs. Speyde belonged to a smart Bridge Club, -possessed a car, and a latch-key—and claimed all the prerogatives of -a self-chaperoning widow,—whilst enjoying as she described, "a really -topping time."</p> - -<p>Possibly because they were such a complete contrast in appearance -and character, Mrs. Speyde took a violent fancy to Nancy Travers, -called her by her christian name the second time they met, graciously -instructed her in a new style of hairdressing, offered her the name -of a <i>very</i> private dressmaker, and imparted amusing information -respecting the affairs,—love and otherwise,—of her very dearest -friends.</p> - -<p>Not the least among Josie's accomplishments, was her art of -story-telling; she drew little word-pictures with audacious and -dramatic effect, and her voice, if slightly guttural, immediately -claimed an audience. Nancy wept and screamed with laughter, as she -found herself unexpectedly in the company of Lady Miller,—and all -her invalid airs; not to speak of several of the inmates of the Grand -Hotel; and Josie's own aunt, Julia Ffinch, was also taken off to the -life!</p> - -<p>Nancy was dazzled, flattered, and enslaved. Josie Speyde was so -clever, so gay, and entertaining: she read aloud scraps of delightful -letters,—chiefly from men in foreign parts,—related stirring little -episodes in her own past, and more or less opened the girl's grey-blue -eyes, to their very widest extent.</p> - -<hr class="chap" /> - -<h2>CHAPTER XXI</h2> - -<h3>ON COMO</h3> - - -<p>Mrs. De Wolfe rarely remained long in one place; she assured her -friends that she must have gipsy blood in her veins, and offered this -idea as a sufficient excuse for her unexpected, and erratic movements. -Weary of Locarno, she adjourned to familiar quarters at Cadenabbia, and -as soon as she was comfortably installed in her favourite sitting-room, -proceeded as usual, to scan the lists of visitors at the various hotels -in the neighbourhood.</p> - -<p>"I see the Gordons are over at Bellaggio," she remarked. "The -Mackenzies are back at the Villa d'Este, the Wynnes are in this very -hotel; and oh! what a piece of luck!—Dudley Villars is here too," -and as she made this announcement, Mrs. De Wolfe turned an unusually -beaming face upon her companion.</p> - -<p>In answer to Nancy's glance of interrogation, she explained: "He is the -son of my greatest friend; I held him at the font, tied his sashes, -heard his prayers, and if I am not greatly mistaken, smacked him -soundly.—I am very fond of Dudley."</p> - -<p>"Do you think the smackings give him a certain claim?"</p> - -<p>"No, indeed, poor fellow; he makes a stronger appeal than that!"</p> - -<p>"And is he really a poor fellow?"</p> - -<p>"On the contrary, he is rich; but his life has been spoiled, he has -no fixed home; Shandmere is let. Years ago he made an unfortunate -marriage: after a few months of cat-and-dog life, he and his wife -parted, he has no near relatives, or ties, and spends his time rambling -about the world."</p> - -<p>"One of the idle rich?"</p> - -<p>"Idle rich yourself! Dudley is always intensely occupied; in pursuit of -new schemes, the development of a voice, or some literary undertaking. -He is a charming fellow, so popular, and remarkably handsome!"</p> - -<p>"I'm simply dying to see him," exclaimed Nancy.</p> - -<p>"Do not die just yet; I'll send him a little note, and ask him to look -me up as soon as he returns. I thought he was in Greece, but Italy -always draws him. His grandmother was an Italian, one of an ancient -Roman family, and from her, he has inherited his graceful manners, -and taste for art. She has also bequeathed him her olive skin, and -matchless dark eyes."</p> - -<p>"I don't believe I can possibly wait until he calls," said Nancy. "I -think I shall go down, and hang about the hall."</p> - -<p>"Oh, you may laugh, my dear, but you won't make such an acquaintance as -Dudley, in a month of Sundays. He is one of my boys—although he <i>is</i> -getting on for forty—and a particular favourite."</p> - -<p>"So I see."</p> - -<p>"And not without good reason; Dudley is so attentive and thoughtful, to -an old woman. His tender solicitude is quite touching! For instance, -he <i>never</i> forgets my birthday; he knows my tastes in flowers, and -books, and people; remembers my likes and dislikes, the little remedies -I use,—and how I hate sugar, and adore asparagus. Besides all this, I -am his godmother, and since his dear mother is gone, I think he is a -little inclined to look to <i>me</i>."</p> - -<p>"I hope he will not be furiously jealous, and insist on turning me -adrift," said Nancy.</p> - -<p>"On the contrary, my dear, you will become friends,—great friends, -and in one way, he will complete your education. He knows Italy, '<i>au -bout des ongles</i>,' and every yard of these lakes. He will widen your -literary horizon, take you out sketching—he really <i>is</i> an artist. It -is marvellous how, in a few strokes, he can place a scene or a face -before you. And not only does he sketch, but write; his books are -praised in the Press, his poems, called masterpieces. Strictly between -ourselves, I buy his books,—but I cannot read them. His poetry is -rather, rather ..." she paused, momentarily at a loss for a word.</p> - -<p>"Improper!" suggested Nancy, raising her brows.</p> - -<p>"No, you evil-minded girl! or if there is anything of the sort, it is -too deeply hidden for <i>me</i>. His writing is vague, and—er, what I may -call nebulous! There are rhapsodies about colour, sunset, perfume, and -eyes. It all seems to me a sort of hotch-potch, but I keep my opinion -to myself, and when anyone asks me what I think of Dudley Villars' -last? I throw up my hands and say 'it's amazing.'"</p> - -<p>"Does he do nothing but write amazing poems, paint, and travel?"</p> - -<p>"Oh, yes, he goes into society. You will see him in London next season. -He is what I may call in 'fierce demand' for balls. Women intrigue and -squabble, to get him to their houses. He knows all the right people, -and dances like.... Give me a simile."</p> - -<p>"A moonbeam."</p> - -<p>"Thank you. It is considered a very high distinction to be his partner. -I've been told that girls, whom he has overlooked, have actually been -seen with tears streaming down their faces."</p> - -<p>"Poor idiots!" and Nancy laughed heartily, and heartlessly. "So much -for Dudley Villars. Now please tell me something about his wife?" -"I've never seen her; she lives in Florida, I believe, and it is an -old, old story,—they parted many years ago, and possibly people over -here do not suppose that she exists! I happen to know, because I sent -her a wedding present. It is a most unsatisfactory state of affairs, I -must say."</p> - -<p>"I wonder they don't get a divorce? Isn't there some place in America, -where it can be managed,—just while you wait at the railway station?"</p> - -<p>"You mean in Dakota? Well, it's not quite so rapid as all that, and my -dear child how gliby you talk of divorce! What can you possibly know -about it?"</p> - -<p>"I have seen and known divorced people. Don't you remember the pretty -American at Locarno? She had been divorced twice, and was going to -marry that Swedish baron! I believe one of her former husbands happened -to be passing through, and left a card, and a bouquet!"</p> - -<p>"Pray who told you all this?"</p> - -<p>"Josie Speyde!"</p> - -<p>"Oh, Josie," and Mrs. De Wolfe made a gesture of angry impatience.</p> - -<p>"Well, she said the lady was really charming: they made great friends, -and played poker together,—she gave Josie lessons."</p> - -<p>"That reminds me," said Mrs. De Wolfe, looking round, "I see Hardy -has brought down the card box; we shall just have time for a game of -piquet, before we dress for dinner."</p> - -<p>The two ladies had scarcely settled down to piquet, when the door was -flung wide, and a sonorous voice, announced, "Sir Dudley Villars!"</p> - -<hr class="chap" /> - -<h2>CHAPTER XXII</h2> - -<h3>"SIR DUDLEY VILLARS"</h3> - - -<p>The meeting between Sir Dudley, and his godmother, was warmly -affectionate. Nancy gazed in amazement, as she beheld him kiss the -old lady foreign fashion, on either wrinkled cheek. After one or -two ejaculations, and explanations, he was presented to her, and -wonderful to relate, neither fell short of her lofty expectations, nor -her chaperon's glowing description. Sir Dudley was slightly built; -admirably turned out; he had clear-cut features, wavy dark hair,—the -front locks picturesquely powdered with white;—his smile was almost -an embrace; whilst his eyes, which were dark, were the very saddest, -and most arresting, that Nancy had ever encountered.</p> - -<p>But these tragic, heart-broken eyes, had no connection, with their -owner's real disposition, and feelings; they were merely a notable -family endowment, and had been for generations, a valuable asset in -the fortunes of the noble Casserini. It was whispered, that these same -eyes, had won vast estates, a ducal palace, and even,—but this is in -your ear,—a cardinal's hat! In the present instance, the eyes were -allied to an agreeable voice, a cultivated taste, and a captivating -personality. Indeed one enthusiastic friend, had been heard to speak of -Villars, as "a delicious fellow!" Delicious or otherwise, he was not -to the taste of various married men, and one or two nervous chaperons. -These, viewed him with no favour; but rather, as a shepherd beholds a -strange, and suspicious dog!</p> - -<p>The visitor and Mrs. De Wolfe immediately embarked on an animated -conversation, an eager exchange of plans, and news, and Nancy, -after listening for some time to the sayings and doings of complete -strangers, made an excuse about dressing in good time, and left the -friends to enjoy a <i>tête-à-tête</i>. No sooner had the door closed upon -her, than Sir Dudley said:</p> - -<p>"My dear Auntie Wolfe, where did you get hold of such a beautiful young -lamb? Is she the new companion you mentioned?"</p> - -<p>The old lady nodded a complacent assent.</p> - -<p>"You never were much given to companions, were you? I only recollect -two; unprepossessing elderly females. What an amazing change!"</p> - -<p>"Yes, I couldn't stand either of those elderly females; one had such -decided views, and argued every question,—from the proper way to boil -an egg, to the age of the world. The other, had a maddening sniff, and -read all my letters. Still, an old woman cannot live entirely alone. -There are wet days, and long evenings! I want someone to read to me, -and play piquet. Nancy is pretty good for a beginner, but not like -you,—a foeman worthy of my steel!"</p> - -<p>"Nancy! What a nice simple name," said Sir Dudley. "Miss Nancy has -lovely eyes; I admire their clear, crystal gaze of childlike innocence. -Do tell me <i>all</i> about her?"</p> - -<p>In a few short but pithy sentences, Sir Dudley was made acquainted with -the history of Miss Travers,—that is to say, as known to her chaperon.</p> - -<p>"An orphan with tons of money, no undesirable relations, and a -truthful, affectionate, nature; dear Auntie Wolfe, allow me to offer -you my warmest congratulations! And how long do you suppose this -delightful alliance will last?"</p> - -<p>"To the end of my days, if I could have my wish," was the prompt reply. -"The child is my right hand, and simply radiates happiness; however, -some odious man is sure to snatch her from me, and carry her off as -<i>his</i> companion for life!"</p> - -<p>"Yes," he assented, nodding his head, "I'm afraid your partnership -is doomed! A beauty, an heiress, and launched by Mrs. De Wolfe—your -chance of keeping her, is not worth the traditional button! But how you -will enjoy yourself in the meanwhile! You who are always so interested -in love affairs, and happy marriages."</p> - -<p>"Well I give you my solemn promise, that I shall be in no hurry to -marry off Nancy."</p> - -<p>"Has she had any love affairs, do you think?"</p> - -<p>"No, indeed. Why, my dear Dudley, you've only to look at the girl's -face, to see that she has yet to experience the heart's awakening."</p> - -<p>"<i>Dio mio</i>, and what a delightful task for some too lucky fellow!"</p> - -<p>"Now look here, Dudley," and Mrs. De Wolfe suddenly sat erect, and -tapped his sleeve with her pince-nez. "No experiments if <i>you</i> -please,—no philandering. I'm not in the way of seeing the gay, and -gallant aspect of your character; you turn the good and steady side to -my old eyes,—but I have <i>ears</i>, and I have heard tales."</p> - -<p>"No doubt you have, dearest Auntie Wolfe, but you know you should -never believe anything you hear, and only the half of what you see. I -grant you, I have amused myself, <i>pour passer le temps</i>, but only with -hardened, and accomplished flirts, who know how to play the game; never -with girls,—and I thought you barred girls yourself?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, I do, the usual run, who giggle, and whisper, and have silly -secrets, and make faces at me behind my back. Now Nancy hasn't a secret -in the whole world; if she had, she couldn't keep it! Her life is -an open book, 'who runs may read.' A coffee plantation, an English -school, once more a coffee plantation; her father's death, a year's -slavery to an abominably selfish aunt; from this aunt she came to -me—and there's her history!"</p> - -<p>"How old is she?"</p> - -<p>"Past twenty, and in some ways, absurdly young for her age."</p> - -<p>"And I am thirty-eight, and absurdly old for my years, so I think you -had better appoint me deputy-chaperon. Well now, I must be off to -dress! May I look in again after dinner?"</p> - -<p>"To be sure," assented Mrs. De Wolfe, "come in and out, whenever you -please, just as you always do, and arrange to sit with us in the -restaurant. Don't let <i>Nancy</i> make any difference!"</p> - -<p>"All right, then, I won't! I've got a capital motor-boat; I'll take you -both on the lake, all day, and every day, and anywhere you like."</p> - -<p>Sir Dudley Villars promptly installed himself as one of Mrs. De -Wolfe's party, whilst Antonio, his valet, enacted the part of -<i>cavaliere-servente</i>, to the two lady's-maids. He sat with them at -meals, entered their sitting-room, when so disposed—which was often; -played piquet, sang tender and emotional love songs in a melting tenor, -to Nancy's accompaniment, and was even suffered to smoke! He was -evidently attached to his godmother, and full of <i>petits soins</i> on her -behalf. His manner to her was charming; that of a cheery, sometimes -teasing, and yet always devoted son! He went her errands, carried her -wraps, brought her flowers, books, and papers; also occasionally, his -letters from mutual friends; made a capital sketch of her for Nancy, -a sketch of Nancy for his godmother, and altogether lived up to his -reputation.</p> - -<p>Mrs. Wynne, her daughter Flora, her fiancé—a young diplomatist on -leave from Rome—joined forces with Mrs. De Wolfe. A party of six, just -filled the motor-boat, and were admirably paired—two matrons, two -lovers, Nancy and her new friend. Sometimes the younger people, went -up and spent a long afternoon on the links above Menaggio; but as a -rule the days were devoted to picnics and excursions, about the lake. -Mrs. De Wolfe was anxious that Nancy should see all her old favourite -"beauty spots," and proved an active, and indefatigable chaperon, but -a long tiring day at Grave-dona, was too much for her seventy-four -years. Returning amid the late mists, she caught a severe chill, and -was confined to her room for one whole week; and as the Wynnes had -betaken themselves to Bellaggio, Nancy and Sir Dudley were abandoned to -a <i>tête-à-tête</i>!</p> - -<p>The invalid would not suffer her young companion to sit what she -called "stuffing,—in a sick-room," and drove her forth to enjoy the -exquisite autumn weather; to walk, to boat, and to sketch,—and so it -came to pass, that Nancy and Sir Dudley—a rather striking pair—went -about together, to play golf, to visit old villas and lovely gardens, -or to climb the hills to well-known holy shrines,—also to flit around -the lake in the motor-boat; now to Como, now to Varenna,—in short, -wherever their fancy carried them!</p> - -<p>Nancy had found old friends in Menaggio; the two Clovers (her -schoolfellows), and their belongings,—which included their parents -and an elder brother. They were eager for her company; she played golf -with them on several occasions, but somehow most of the shining hours -were claimed by Dudley Villars,—who pronounced the Clover family to -be "bourgeois," and the son,—who exhibited a fervid interest in Miss -Travers, "as a blundering lout, with a calf-like smile, and dull to the -verge of idiocy."</p> - -<p>Dudley, to do him justice, was a delightful companion; so entertaining, -so thoughtful, always ready to fall in with the slightest whim; and -he did things so well! To Nancy his painting was a revelation and a -delight, his voice was sympathetic, and he told her many entrancing -tales, of his wanderings in the far-away East, and then his good -looks,—what a haunting face!</p> - -<p>Sir Dudley's manner to his charming companion, had been partly that of -a kindly teacher, and comrade; tinged with an infusion of chivalrous -reverence.</p> - -<p>Oh, how different to Teddy and Nicky, who never hurried to open a -door, or stand up, when she entered the room. Once or twice Nancy had -asked herself, if she was not growing to like this charming friend, -<i>too</i> well? After all; he was no relation. Simple Nancy! And she could -not forget, that when he had gone to Milan for two or three days, she -had missed him even more than his godmother; and once or twice, when, -looking up suddenly, she had met his eyes, she found herself blushing -to her hair.</p> - -<p>That he liked and admired her,—Nancy felt instinctively, and a -chilly little inward voice asked, if she was going to what is called -"fall in love?" She dismissed the idea with horror. Sir Dudley was -married, and had a wife living; she too was married, and had a husband, -somewhere—incredible as it seemed, even to her own thoughts. One -night, she took herself solemnly to task—sitting at her bedroom -window, looking down at the stars, reflected in the lake, she held an -inquiry. Dudley had often given her flowers; he had lately assumed an -attitude of exclusive protection and possession; once it had seemed to -her,—though it might have been imagination,—that he had pressed her -hand, as she alighted from the motor-boat. There must be no more of -<i>that</i>. What would her father have thought of his Nancy, if she gave -her heart to a married man?</p> - -<hr class="tb" /> - -<p>Mrs. De Wolfe had recovered from her chill, and resumed her -responsibilities, but she no longer went on expeditions and -picnics,—contenting herself with going across to Bellaggio, to call -on friends, or to prowl about among the antiquity shops; whilst her -companion sketched in the villa gardens, or endeavoured to immortalize -the tall cypresses, above San Giovanni.</p> - -<p>With the exception of one or two eloquent glances, and an involuntary -hand-pressure, Dudley's manner to his godmother's beautiful companion, -was admirably guarded. With the fear of his old friend's displeasure -before his eyes, it had been a case of what he mentally termed "paws -off," but how could any man under eighty years of age, withstand -such an exquisite creature? So simple and transparently innocent; so -warm-hearted and intelligent, and beyond and above all, what a lovely -vision of glorious youth! It was this, that enthralled the <i>blasé</i> -dilettante.</p> - -<p>He had played the part of genial comrade,—for he knew instinctively -the sort of girl he had to deal with; how easy to alienate, and scare! -She had been informed that he was married, and her Irish spirit and -Irish chastity, were inscribed upon her exquisite lips. He and Nancy -had many talks, and interesting discussions, as they took their daily -stroll along the romantic thoroughfare, which leads from Cadenabbia -through and beyond Tremezzo. Mrs. De Wolfe frequently accompanied them, -and then, when half way, a half-hearted chaperon, sat down on a low -wall to rest, and there await their return.</p> - -<p>Nancy, who always enjoyed the sound of her own voice, and an -appreciative listener, was neither shy, nor self-conscious; at a very -early period of their acquaintance, and with consummate ease, the -subtle man of the world, had made himself master of her simple history. -He enjoyed listening to her vivid descriptions of the Indian hills, and -to confidences as fresh, and pure as the dew of the dawn. He heard all -about her school-days, her father's money troubles, and his splendid -character. She spoke of the Corner boys, and Sir Dudley's old friend, -Mrs. Ffinch. Once and once only had she touched on the tragedy of her -bereavement,—when with averted face, and broken voice, she related -particulars of Travers' death.</p> - -<p>"And what became of the fellow who missed the panther?" inquired -Villars, after a pause.</p> - -<p>"I don't know; he is somewhere in India," she replied, almost under her -breath.</p> - -<p>"Well, I suppose, he was ashamed to show his face." But to this remark -there was no reply.</p> - -<p>Late one afternoon, Sir Dudley and his pupil,—having finished a sketch -of the Baptistery, at Lenno, crossed over in the boat to the Villa -Arconati,—which stands on its promontory half surrounded by water, -and embowered in shade. Here the pair sat on the edge of a low wall, -overlooking the lake, and carried on a lively discussion,—of which -Mrs. Ffinch was the subject. Nancy did gallant battle for her friend, -and patroness, and spoke with enthusiasm of her generosity and kindness -of heart.</p> - -<p>"Of course I am not denying old Julia a few good qualities; I've known -her since I was a kid,"—and Sir Dudley unkindly added—"she's four -or five years older than I am.—I remember her in the nursery, a big, -overbearing girl, <i>very</i> stingy with jam. In those days the Hillsides -were terribly hard up, and had a large family. Ju Lamerton was a -sensible young woman, with no romantic nonsense about her, and she made -room for her sisters, by marrying the biggest bore in the whole of -India."</p> - -<p>"Well, at any rate, they seem quite happy."</p> - -<p>"<i>Seem</i>," repeated Sir Dudley; "that's her cleverness; she manages him. -She manages everyone! She married off Emma and Mabel, and last time -she came home, got a lout of a brother, into a capital sinecure." Then -turning to look at Nancy, he added—"I wonder she didn't try her hand -on <i>you</i>,—but I suppose you were too young?"</p> - -<p>Nancy felt herself colouring up to the roots of her hair, and carried -off the suggestion with a rather embarrassed laugh.</p> - -<p>"I expect you had all the young planters on their knees, young as you -were? Come now, own up, strictly between ourselves! How many scalps did -you bring home?"</p> - -<p>"Not one," she answered, with decision, "we were just good friends, -like you and I,—nothing more."</p> - -<p>"I am delighted we are good friends," murmured Villars; and after this -sentence, there fell a strange and dreamy silence. The surrounding -scene was exquisite, the beauty of Italy's lake land, tinged with -a kind of roseate romance. Above them to the left, towered hills, -clothed with olive and chestnut woods; at their feet gently lapped the -jade-green water of the lake. The glow of a wonderful sunset touched -the quiet landscape, and the only sound that recalled one to a workaday -world, was the chime of the Angelus, stealing across from San Giovanni.</p> - -<p>The stillness and solitude, had a compelling effect upon Villars; -turning to Nancy, he said abruptly, "I must speak! Here is the hour, -and the place! I want to tell you, that I have not had such a happy -time, as this last five weeks—for many a long, long year. Nancy, may -I call you Nancy?—everyone does, and Miss Travers sounds so formal! -I may, may I not?"—as Nancy made no reply, but nervously twisted a -rose between her fingers. He moved an inch or two nearer, and in a low, -seductive voice continued: "There is no one to object,—is there?"</p> - -<p>"No one," she answered, raising her head, and meeting his burning dark -eyes, with a flash of pride. He gazed at her critically and in silence. -What a darling she was! From the very first he had been enthralled by -her high spirits, <i>entrain</i>, and beauty; here, he assured himself, was -the perfect treasure for which he had vainly sought; and in many and -far lands. He had made this discovery on former occasions,—but the -prize had eluded him, or proved a bitter disappointment. Close beside -him, twirling a red rose in her taper fingers, sat his one, and only -love.</p> - -<p>If that devil Cassandra, would but divorce him, here was her -successor,—the future Lady Villars! But Cassandra, the most obstinate -and malignant of her sex, was adamant; hitherto, his appeals, prayers, -threats, and flagrant indiscretions had failed to move her. This was -her revenge; she refused to release him!</p> - -<p>Something in this long and unusual silence, filled the girl with a -sense of vague uneasiness: and this uneasiness was not dispelled, when -her companion broke the long pause, with the startling question: "May I -kiss you, darling?" His voice was very humble and pleading, but there -was a smouldering fire, in his melancholy dark eyes.</p> - -<p>"Certainly not," she answered sharply.</p> - -<p>"But why?" urged Villars, moving still nearer, "since we are such -friends?"</p> - -<p>"Because I should hate it," she declared decisively.</p> - -<p>"<i>Une jeunesse sans amour, est comme un matin sans soleil</i>," he quoted. -"I suppose no man has ever touched those perfect lips?"</p> - -<p>Nancy tossed the rose away, but made no reply: she was feeling -excessively uncomfortable.</p> - -<p>"So you know nothing about it, darling little girl?" he went on. "No -one has ever yet drawn your soul through in one long kiss! Listen to -<i>me</i>, Nancy," and he made an effort to take her hand. "Won't you make -room for a very lonely fellow in your heart? You <i>would</i>, if you only -knew how miserable his life has been."</p> - -<p>Nancy slipped down off the low wall, and stood erect, surveying her -companion with a heightened colour, and irrepressible tears glistening -in her eyes. She had received a tremendous shock, and felt a horrible -impression of degradation, and insecurity.</p> - -<p>"Sir Dudley, please don't talk to me in this way. I," and she gulped -down an inclination to burst into tears, "I—I don't like it!"</p> - -<p>Then with a desperate snatch at her ebbing self-possession, she added: -"Will you be so kind as to signal for the boat?"</p> - -<p>"Horrified! frightened! affronted! easy to see <i>she's</i> new to the -situation," he said to himself. "I must go slow, <i>chi va sano—va -lontano</i>. I've been a bit of an ass, but the sunset and the Angelus -were too much for me."</p> - -<p>"You know I wouldn't offend you for the whole world," he murmured, as -in strained self-consciousness they awaited the boat. "Only forgive -me for this once! One never can tell. Most girls like admiration, and -kisses—I see you are different."</p> - -<p>Nancy made no reply, but picked up her red Lugano umbrella, and got -into the boat, without a word.</p> - -<p>"She has taken the little scene seriously," he said to himself, as he -looked at her set profile, and it was now his turn to be uneasy, and -alarmed! Supposing she were to go and lodge a long complaint with Aunty -De Wolfe? He must make his peace before they returned to the hotel. -Accordingly on their way there, with all the eloquence, cleverness, -and guile of a well-experienced diplomatist in emotion, he pleaded -with his companion, for forgiveness; his misery and regrets appeared -to be so acute, that they touched her sensitive feelings, and cooled -her indignation. How <i>could</i> she withstand, the tears that stood in his -wonderful eyes?</p> - -<p>Notwithstanding this patched up peace, Mrs. De Wolfe might have noticed -a certain constraint, between her young companions that evening, and -there was no singing,—but as it happened, the mind of their chaperon -was occupied with a recent interview, and the old lady was happily -unconscious of any cloud.</p> - -<hr class="chap" /> - -<h2>CHAPTER XXIII</h2> - -<h3>A WARNING</h3> - - -<p>Among Mrs. De Wolfe's friends at Bellaggio, was a certain lady, known -to her intimates as "Sally Horne," a well endowed, unencumbered widow -of sixty; her daughter was married to an Indian official, her son was -quartered in Cairo,—and her London house was let! She and her maid -were staying at the "Victoria," where she had many acquaintances, and -vainly endeavoured to inveigle Mrs. De Wolfe to cross the water, and -establish herself in her company,—but Mrs. De Wolfe declining the lure -of Bridge, preferred to remain where she was!</p> - -<p>The afternoon that Nancy and Sir Dudley set out to sketch the -Baptistery, Mrs. Horne came over to see her friend. The old lady was -sitting in the little garden by the lake, and recognizing her visitor -on the boat, hastened to meet, and welcome her.</p> - -<p>"Would you like to go inside, Sally?" she asked, "or shall we have tea -out here?"</p> - -<p>"I've had tea, thank you," said Mrs. Horne, "but by all means let us -sit outside. Where's your girl?" she inquired, looking round, and her -air was inquisitorial.</p> - -<p>"Gone up to Lenno to finish a sketch."</p> - -<p>"With Sir Dudley?"</p> - -<p>Mrs. De Wolfe nodded a careless assent. After a moment's hesitation -this bold visitor announced: "I have something disagreeable to say to -you, Elizabeth."</p> - -<p>"You needn't tell me that!" rejoined her companion, with a grim smile, -"I saw it in your face, before you came off the boat."</p> - -<p>"I wonder if I shall make you very angry!"</p> - -<p>"<i>Try</i>," said Mrs. De Wolfe; the word was a challenge, "I've not been -in a good wholesome rage for ages."</p> - -<p>"Well, it's about Nancy, and Sir Dudley Villars.—People are talking."</p> - -<p>"Bah!" ejaculated Mrs. De Wolfe, "let them talk!"</p> - -<p>"But do please listen, my dear! I am fond of Nancy, and I can't bear to -hear it said, that she is being compromised."</p> - -<p>"Compromised," shouted Mrs. De Wolfe. "What nonsense! What infamous -scandal."</p> - -<p>"Yes, it's all over my hotel, and only this morning, as we sat in the -garden, Lady MacBullet, said she was sorry for Miss Travers; such a -pretty young creature, and she understood an orphan, making herself so -cheap and conspicuous, with a man of the character of Dudley Villars. -They were on the lake together all day,—and the hotel was full of -stories."</p> - -<p>"Only cat women's gossip,—I know the style! I'm sure the men don't -talk of Dudley's character! Men are not gossips!"</p> - -<p>"Oh! and why not; what about men's clubs?"</p> - -<p>"Well, I've never heard a <i>man</i>, say anything against Dudley."</p> - -<p>"No, because he is straight enough with <i>them</i>, I believe;—both rich -and generous. For women, he has a different code! Elizabeth, I know -you are devoted to Dudley Villars,—and although an old grandmother, -I am not altogether insensible to his fascinations, <i>myself</i>! When he -chooses, he can be irresistible, so do pray imagine the spell he can -cast over an impressionable young girl like Nancy?"</p> - -<p>"<i>No</i> spell has been cast," protested her friend, sharply, "and really -I'm surprised at you, Sally, taking the trouble to come over here, and -tell me your hotel was talking scandal. Dudley Villars is my godson, I -have absolute confidence in him you may be sure, or I would never have -suffered him to be the continual companion of Nancy."</p> - -<p>"Well, at least I meant well," said Mrs. Horne, stiffly, "and my good -intention must be its own reward. I like Nancy, otherwise I wouldn't -have bothered." Then rising, "I see the Tremezzo boat coming in, and I -will go back in her!"</p> - -<p>"No indeed, Sally," pulling her down, "you will do nothing of the sort. -I'm an ungrateful, ungracious old harridan, and I'm sincerely obliged -to you for your interest in Nancy. I confess, that I have never seen -anything but the best side of Dudley; I believe, and I feel in my -bones,—that he has behaved most honourably, with regard to the girl; -not one indiscreet word has he spoken! <i>That</i> I can guarantee; and -she is not susceptible! Every scrap of love in her heart was absorbed -by her father, and since his death, I do not think she has much to -spare for anyone. Dudley and Nancy are good friends, and no more. I've -allowed them a little extra liberty, to go sketching and boating, not -knowing that <i>every</i> eye was fixed upon them! I have already told -you, I trust Dudley, and as for the girl, before she ever saw him, I -informed her that he was a married man."</p> - -<p>"Sometimes that makes no difference," remarked her companion.</p> - -<p>"Oh! my dear Sally, I'm afraid you are getting infected; let me again -assure you, that Dudley's friendship with Nancy, is entirely platonic!"</p> - -<p>"Then, my dear Elizabeth, it's something entirely new for Dudley -Villars," and Mrs. Horne, imparted to a reluctant ear, a brief account -of one or two affairs of which he was the hero.</p> - -<p>"I suppose you haven't heard that the Bellamys are separated on his -account, and Daisy Bellamy has gone home to her mother?"</p> - -<p>"<i>I've</i> never believed that Dudley was responsible for that business! -still I'm afraid, Sally, that I've been a little slack as a chaperon; -so I'll put an end to the talk, by taking the girl on to Florence."</p> - -<p>"A very wise move, my dear, and I sincerely hope it will not be a case -of 'locking the stable door, when the steed is stolen.'"</p> - -<p>"No indeed! <i>my</i> palfrey is safe. Nancy is heartwhole. I am getting -rather tired of the lake, and am such a well-known old tramp, that when -I bundle off at a couple of days' notice, it never excites remark."</p> - -<p>"Do you think that Dudley Villars will make his way there too?"</p> - -<p>"No," rejoined his champion with decision, "for although it is a -perfectly harmless friendship, I draw the line at followers."</p> - -<p>After the boat had carried her visitor away, Mrs. De Wolfe remained for -a long time buried in profound meditation; then she rose, went into the -hotel, despatched a prepaid wire to Florence, and give notice of her -intending departure.</p> - -<p>The next morning as the little party were at <i>déjeuner</i>, Mrs. De Wolfe -received a telegram. Having read it, she laid it aside and said: "Well -that's all right, we have got our rooms! Nancy, prepare to march on -Florence, the day after to-morrow!"</p> - -<p>"You are not serious!" exclaimed Sir Dudley, setting down an untasted -glass.</p> - -<p>"Perfectly serious, I wonder that I was not away long before this! My -campaigns, like Napoleon's, are rapidly organized."</p> - -<p>"But <i>you</i> have no campaign."</p> - -<p>"No! but what about Nancy?"</p> - -<p>"Beginning with this forced march, Auntie Wolfe, I wonder you can -exchange this lovely clear air, for the gloomy streets of Florence."</p> - -<p>Mrs. De Wolfe laughed, and said: "I am tired of looking out on water; -in my hotel, which is not on the Lung' Arno, I can lie at my ease in a -comfortable bed, and stare at the Duomo; think of that!"</p> - -<p>Dudley realized how foolish it was to argue with Auntie Wolfe at -present, but when Nancy had departed to give instructions to her maid, -and the old lady was alone, he said:</p> - -<p>"Why are you going off so suddenly?"</p> - -<p>An unwelcome idea flashed into his brain. Could Nancy have confided in -her chaperon?</p> - -<p>"To a plain question, I'll give you a plain answer, my dear boy. There -are two kinds of discretion: one voluntary; the other enforced. I find -that people have begun to notice that you and my little girl are very -much together, and although it is a most innocent friendship, still it -does not do for Nancy to be talked about, so we will remove ourselves."</p> - -<p>"What an infernal shame," exclaimed her godson, looking surprisingly -vexed. "The venomous tongues of some devils wouldn't leave an angel -alone."</p> - -<p>"And you, my dear Dudley, are by all accounts, far from being an -angel!—I have heard some sad tales."</p> - -<p>"Which of course you don't believe! Have you ever known me to play -the fool with any of your friends?" He paused for a reply. As none -was forthcoming he continued, "I cannot tell you what a happy time I -have put in here. You know I always feel so much at home with you, -dear Auntie Wolfe!" and he stooped and kissed her on her cheek. Then, -straightening himself, he said, as if struck by a bright idea: "I've -not been in Florence for a couple of years,—I believe I'll run down -there next week."</p> - -<p>"<i>No</i>, Dudley," protested his godmother, raising her thin old hand, -"<i>that</i> I positively forbid. You will see us in town,—and later at -the Court, but abroad, no more! It is so easy to be conspicuous in a -small do-nothing circle, and I'm sure you are quite as sensitive about -Nancy's reputation—though that is too big a word—as I am myself."</p> - -<p>During the remaining two days, Dudley's manner to Nancy was perfect, -and entirely of the kindly elder brother type. He gave her sketches of -their favourite spots, supplied her with books for the journey, and -went all the way to Como, to put the ladies and their parcels into the -train, himself. Then returned down the lake alone, in a condition of -most abject misery. For days he walked and boated in the neighbourhood -of Cadenabbia; a melancholy object of picturesque dejection. Those who -witnessed and marked this change, said to one another, "Dudley Villars -has been badly hit this time; serves him jolly well right!" He wrote -cheerful (and exchangeable) letters to both ladies, giving them to -understand, that he was excessively gay, and well occupied.</p> - -<p>But do what he would, he could not get Nancy out of his head; however -he consoled himself with the belief, that time and persistence would -be his staunch allies. And how he longed to see her! Sometimes -this longing overpowered him, and he nearly drove Antonio crazy by -his conflicting, and capricious orders. Twice, he arranged to go to -Florence, twice, he changed his mind; at last, he positively took his -departure. Was not Florence free to all the world?—Auntie Wolfe's -attitude implied that she had it on lease,—and even if he only saw -Nancy in a church, a picture gallery, or the street,—that would be -something!</p> - -<p>On his arrival in the city of flowers, he boldly drove direct to Mrs. -De Wolfe's hotel; and here he had the mortification of learning, that -"the Signora and the Signorina, had left that morning for Palermo!"</p> - -<hr class="tb" /> - -<p>From Sicily, the ever wandering Mrs. De Wolfe, took ship for Egypt, -where she put up at the Savoy Hotel, Cairo; here she discovered her -friend, Mrs. Horne, already established, and heard that all the Miller -party were at the Mena House.</p> - -<p>"Six months' travelling had wrought a surprising change in her family," -as Billy explained to her friend Nancy,—to whom she paid an immediate -visit.</p> - -<p>"I declare we are so altered, you will hardly recognize any of our -party,—except myself. There is the Pater, he has cut off his little -side whiskers, and wears up-to-date collars, and looks years younger; -he plays golf, is very keen about excursions, and actually dances at -our hotel balls! He has met crowds of old friends, and has come out -of his shell in a most remarkable manner. Then mother has floated to -the surface. She now goes about with us; dresses very smartly, has -taken madly to Bridge, and can ride a donkey with the best. I think it -was Minna's engagement that aroused her from her torpor. She was so -immensely interested in a love affair at first hand! Minna is making -a splendid match, and we <i>all</i> love Major Brently; he has become our -brother, and what he calls, 'wheels us into line'; and is awfully good -to us. Mother having, to use a sporting expression 'tasted blood,' has -now great hopes of Brenda; and many people consider Baby, our beauty! -The fact is, what with this inspiring climate, heaps of new friends, a -whirl of excitement and amusement, our existence has been quickened, -and we don't know ourselves, we are so happy!"</p> - -<p>"Then your exodus has been a wonderful success! What a triumph for -<i>you</i>, Billy? No one now dare call you 'Silly Billy!'"</p> - -<p>"Yes, it has turned out all right, and even if nothing particular had -occurred,—like Minna's engagement,—we would have had enough to think -and talk about, for years. As it is, we have souvenirs to fill a room, -and thousands of picture postcards; have enlarged our ideas, and made -many friends,—even mother has her pals."</p> - -<p>"You like Egypt, I can see," said Nancy.</p> - -<p>"I just love it, the sand, the delicious desert air, the cloudless -blue sky, and then Cairo itself. You and I must go about together, -Nancy. I've been here six weeks, and am getting quite clever at finding -my way, and making bargains. I can even talk a little Arabic. I have -collected ever so many presents for the people at home."</p> - -<p>"I am sure you have," said Nancy; "how I wish that I had people at -home, I could take presents to."</p> - -<p>"Oh! that will all come in time, my dear. Do tell me, have you come -across any interesting young men?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, several; good dancers and tennis players, but not otherwise -specially engaging."</p> - -<p>"You don't appear to have lost your heart?"</p> - -<p>"No, I don't believe I've <i>that</i> sort of heart to lose."</p> - -<p>"It remains to be seen. When I've married off my three sisters—I'll -see about settling you."</p> - -<p>"Thank you, Billy."</p> - -<p>"And talking of settling, I wonder how father and the Mum will content -themselves at home, after this gay and giddy whirl about the world?"</p> - -<p>"They won't settle; they will be continually on the move. I warn you, -that you have started an avalanche."</p> - -<p>"A good thing I did! better than being an iceberg all one's days. By -the way, I hear you have done some exquisite water-colours of Como; do -show them to me."</p> - -<p>"Oh! how good!" she exclaimed, after Nancy had displayed her -treasures,—artfully keeping the best to the last—</p> - -<p>"Nancy, these are quite top-hole,—who taught you?"</p> - -<p>"I had a good master at school, but a friend of Mrs. De Wolfe's, who -was at Cadenabbia, gave me lessons. We went out sketching together, -almost every day."</p> - -<p>"With a chaperon, of course?"</p> - -<p>Nancy shook her head.</p> - -<p>"Who was he; had he a name?"</p> - -<p>"Certainly he had! Sir Dudley Villars."</p> - -<p>"Oh! Some call him 'Prince Charming,' others, 'a Deadly villain.' -He is not very young,—but so handsome, isn't he? and a merciless -lady-killer."</p> - -<p>"Well, here am I, alive and well, so you see he has spared <i>me</i>," said -Nancy, who had almost forgotten a certain conversation which had taken -place on the low wall, by the Villa Aconati.</p> - -<hr class="tb" /> - -<p>Cairo is said to be the most typical Eastern city in the world, and it -appealed very strongly to Nancy Travers. The palm trees, the dark faces -of a gesticulating voluble throng, the dense blue sky, the warm and -golden sun, in some ways recalled India. In February Cairo is socially -at its gayest. Nancy and her chaperon were in flattering request.</p> - -<p>However, it was not society, but this land of tombs, temples and a -river, that engrossed her interest, and fired her warm imagination. -One afternoon, towards the end of her stay, as Mrs. De Wolfe and Nancy -drove out to the Mena House, behind a dashing pair of long-tailed -Arabs, as they sped along Ismail's road, the old lady discussed her -plans.</p> - -<p>"I must give you a bit of the season, Nancy, and you shall be presented -at a May Court."</p> - -<p>"Oh! no, no, please no!"</p> - -<p>"Well, you know, you will have to make your curtsey to your sovereign, -some time! Shall we say on your marriage?"</p> - -<p>Nancy made no immediate reply, but the cheek nearest to her friend, was -unusually pink—Why? She appeared to be engrossed in watching a long -string of clumsy, heavily-laden camels. Nothing to blush at there!</p> - -<p>"After June, we will go down to the Court," resumed Mrs. De Wolfe; "it -is such a dear old place, you will love it."</p> - -<p>"How can you desert it, as you do?"</p> - -<p>"That is what my neighbours ask, but I don't mind their remonstrances, -I yield to the <i>Wanderlust</i>. The Court is too large for one old woman, -and though I am attached to it,—it holds agonizing memories, and I -cannot endure it, unless it is packed,—so to speak,—to the roof, -when my guests and their doings monopolize my attention, and distract -my thoughts from the long illness, and death of my dear husband, the -parting with my two sons,—who never came back to me. One was killed -at Magersfontein, the other died of typhoid in India. The Court is full -of reminders, of Freddy, and Hugh. Their bedrooms, with their personal -belongings, are precisely as they left them, with their pictures, -books, birds' eggs, and butterflies. The gardens they worked in, are -still kept up, and planted with their favourite flowers; their old -pony, Barkis, only died two years ago, at an immense age. I often ask -myself, why the lives of those two promising young men should be cut -short? and a useless old woman, their mother, still cumbers the ground?"</p> - -<p>To this question Nancy—who had a large lump in her throat—could make -no reply, and there fell a long silence.</p> - -<p>"I wonder what you see in me, my dear?" began Mrs. De Wolfe suddenly. -"My life is now behind me, you are young and stand upon its -threshold,—a radiant, and expectant figure."</p> - -<p>"Radiant! I'm afraid not; you are too partial, and as for -expectations—they are strictly moderate."</p> - -<p>"That at least is something. On the <i>Patna</i>, they were positively nil. -Poor forlorn child, I took pity upon you, as I would on a drowning -kitten!"</p> - -<p>"You did," assented the girl, with laughing eyes, "and here I am on -your hands, a full-grown young cat!"</p> - -<p>"Claws and all complete, a most formidable responsibility! Well, I -threw you a plank and brought you to land,—some of these days I may -float you off again, upon the sea of matrimony."</p> - -<p>"No, no, dear Auntie Wolf," laying her hand on hers, "I'm very happy as -I am,—please don't dream of such a thing."</p> - -<p>"Well, if I do not,—others will. Ah, there are Sir Lucas and Major -Horne, waiting for us," she added, as they turned into the garden, and -dashed up the entrance of Mena House. "I wonder if the Millers have -secured their cabins in our steamer?"</p> - -<p>"I think so, and you will find Major Horne will be of the party,—I -have a presentiment, that he hopes to marry Billy."</p> - -<hr class="chap" /> - -<h2>CHAPTER XXIV</h2> - -<h3>A LITTLE DINNER FOR THREE</h3> - - -<p>The end of April found Mrs. De Wolfe and her protégée in London, -installed in a fine suite at the Hyde Park Hotel. The position suited -the old lady, as here she was surrounded by connections and friends. -There was her sister-in-law in Park Lane, her niece in Belgrave Square, -the Hillsides within a stone's throw, and the Millers in Pont Street. -She and her young companion were soon sought out, and overwhelmed with -invitations, and Nancy lived in a whirl of agreeable engagements.</p> - -<p>First an early ride in the Park, then the morning shopping; luncheon -parties, receptions, dinners, and above all, dances! Spare moments -were devoted to "fittings," and hurried visits to girl friends.—These -various claims, literally devoured the long summer days.—Nancy -was very gay and happy in this new life, a conspicuous figure in -her immediate circle! admired in private, stared at in public, and -favoured with yet another gift besides beauty, and youth. Wherever -she went, she appeared to bring sunshine; and those who knew her, -revelled in her endowment. Among her chief partners and cavaliers -were, Sir Dudley Villars, Major Cathcart—now enjoying a nice soft -staff appointment—Toby Lamerton, Lord Lanark, and various others too -numerous to mention.</p> - -<p>Soon after her arrival in London, Nancy had reported herself in Queen's -Gate, and waited upon her aunt,—unsupported by her good friend, Mrs. -De Wolfe. Mrs. Jenkins' little blue eyes opened to their widest extent, -when they beheld her niece, no longer a shrinking and humble satellite, -but a self-possessed, well-dressed, and independent damsel.</p> - -<p>As her envious glance wandered over an elegant toilet, she realized -that this "bird of paradise" would be entirely out of place, in her -own ordinary "Hen Run." It was evident that the girl had a good maid, -and a good conceit of herself; she resolved to secure Nancy for a -visit,—which would include at least, two state dinners,—in order that -her own friends should have an opportunity of beholding a niece whose -success and striking appearance, would add to her own importance.</p> - -<p>Mrs. Taylor and Miss Dolling happened to be both in attendance,—the -one as faded and sentimental, the other aggressive, and glum—as of -old. At the end of twenty minutes' conversation,—chiefly questions and -answers,—Miss Dolling rose, and said, "I'll just go and fetch the Pom, -I'm sure he'd love to see Nancy."</p> - -<p>"And I'm sure he wouldn't recognize her <i>now</i>," said Mrs. Taylor, with -significance, and for once Mrs. Taylor happened to be right. The Pom -merely sniffed indifferently at Nancy's smart gown, and then rudely -retired into his comfortable padded basket.</p> - -<p>"And how is the Coffee?" inquired Mrs. Jenkins, in a condescending -manner.</p> - -<p>"Oh, doing well. One of my old friends has taken over the management; -and gold has been found on the estate."</p> - -<p>"Gold? well I never!" ejaculated Miss Dolling. "Fancy owning a gold -mine!"</p> - -<p>"It's a reef, I believe," explained Nancy, "and has been taken over by -a company."</p> - -<p>"So you're <i>quite</i> a millionaire," remarked her aunt, rather sourly. -"And what are your plans for the summer?"</p> - -<p>"We are going down to Mrs. De Wolfe's place, Newenham Court—later on."</p> - -<p>"Oh, so she <i>has</i> a place; I always understood, that she lived in -hotels and steamers, and had no home?"</p> - -<p>"She found it so lonely, living all by herself."</p> - -<p>"Then why not have a companion?" demanded Mrs. Taylor, "goodness knows -they are cheap enough!"</p> - -<p>"She has a companion now,—she has <i>me</i>," declared Nancy with a smile.</p> - -<p>"Oh, <i>you</i>!" with an impatient sniff, "you won't last her long; young -women with money, are soon snapped up. You'll marry within six months."</p> - -<p>"I assure you, I shall <i>not</i>."</p> - -<p>"Ah, that is how girls always talk," broke in Miss Dolling, "I used to -say the very same things myself; you have yet to meet your fate," and -she heaved a heavy sigh, as with her head on one side, she dreamily -contemplated Nancy,—the daughter of her one, and only love!</p> - -<p>Before the visitor took leave, she was invited, nay, almost commanded, -to come and stay at Queen's Gate. This invitation she firmly, but very -civilly declined. Mrs. De Wolfe could not possibly spare her.</p> - -<p>"Well," said Mrs. Jenkins, looking alarmingly pink and angry, "I do -think your own aunt has a claim before <i>strangers</i>; I shall expect you -to give me at least a week."</p> - -<p>But the niece of her own aunt proved to be adamant, and submitted a -long, and imposing list of her engagements. She, however, consented -to appear at a dinner-party,—the date of which Mrs. Jenkins, diary -in hand, fixed so far ahead, that excuse or evasion, was out of the -question.</p> - -<p>One Sunday afternoon Nancy, and a party of friends, betook themselves -to the Park, chaperoned by Mrs. De Wolfe and Lord Hillside. The usual -rendezvous near Stanhope Gate, was crowded, and the promenade bordering -the grass, so thronged that progress was difficult. Nancy and Tony -Lamerton lagged somewhat in the rear of their companions, and during -a block in the seething mass, she descried a face she hadn't seen -for more than two years: the beaming visage of Teddy Dawson, wearing -a wide smile upon his half-open mouth. Oh, how funny he looked! His -coat sleeves and trousers, inches too short; an old-fashioned tall -hat crammed on the back of his head, otherwise the same blue-eyed old -Teddy. Nancy instantly extended a delicately gloved hand, but instead -of grasping it (as expected), he failed to recognize a friend in this -smart young lady, and became the colour of a boiled beetroot.</p> - -<p>"There must be some mistake," he said to himself, "<i>he</i> had no -acquaintance with this dazzling creature, who had so to speak, summoned -him to halt,"—but when Nancy smiled at his overpowering embarrassment, -and he looked into her eyes, he exclaimed, "Great Christmas, can it be -<i>Nancy</i>?"</p> - -<p>"Why not?" she demanded. "Of course it's Nancy."</p> - -<p>The pair were unaffectedly glad to meet, and exchanged very cordial -greetings.</p> - -<p>"When did you arrive?" she asked. "Yesterday?"</p> - -<p>"Now, how in the world did you guess?"</p> - -<p>"By your wardrobe; Jessie will have to take you in hand."</p> - -<p>"Oh, so you've heard!" he replied, with a conscious grin. "My coming -home was a bit sudden; but at the very last moment I got a passage in -the same boat, with Jess, and her mother. Where are you stopping?"</p> - -<p>"At present, we are <i>both</i> stopping the public thoroughfare,—but you -will find me at the Hyde Park Hotel. I've no end of things to hear, and -to say to you. Will you and Jessie come and dine to-morrow night at -eight?"</p> - -<p>"I can't answer for Jess,—I believe she has no frocks yet, but I'll -come all right."</p> - -<p>"Don't be late," and with a parting nod, she drifted on.</p> - -<p>"I say! that's a rum-looking chap," said Tony. "Did you ever see such -boots?—like coal boxes, and what a hat! no gloves, hands the size of a -ham,—where on earth did you get hold of him?"</p> - -<p>"In India, he was our nearest neighbour; I've known him since I was in -socks. He is one of the best; something quite extra! You mustn't judge -him by his clothes! If you had put in ten years on a coffee estate, -perhaps you wouldn't be so <i>very</i> smart yourself!"</p> - -<p>"Perhaps not! Well, I hope when Jessie has got her frocks, she will do -something for him, poor chap! His coat would be a find for the wardrobe -of our regimental theatre. Is <i>he</i> a specimen of the men you met out in -India?"</p> - -<p>"He is a specimen of a successful planter, a first-rate sportsman, -and a real friend. He was like a kind elder brother, when I was in -frightful trouble. Well!" in a totally different voice—"there are Mrs. -De Wolfe and Sir Dudley beckoning—I do hope, they have kept us chairs!"</p> - -<p>"Mr. Edward Dawson," as announced in Mrs. De Wolfe's sitting-room, -arrived to dine, alone, bringing a long epistle from Jessie, who was -staying in West Kensington, with some of her mother's relatives. Teddy -had invested in a new black tie and a pair of shiny shoes, and looked -quite passable when presented to Mrs. De Wolfe,—who gave him a cordial -reception. She knew all about him,—and had even read his letters!</p> - -<p>The two ladies, who were "going on" to a ball, were in full dress; -Nancy so transformed and lovely, that Teddie could scarcely take his -eyes from her. His surprise and bewilderment were such, that several -times, he entirely forgot what he was going to say, and blundered -about, with spoons and helpings, as if he had never dined in company -before! He and Nancy had much to discuss, and he spoke freely and -openly before the "old lady," as he mentally called her.</p> - -<p>"I must confess, I wonder how you got round Finchie?" said Nancy.</p> - -<p>"Oh, you mean about Jess? You see she was away up in Cashmere, and -the mice played about! She declares that Jessie's mad,—and that I'm -a savage and belong to the Stone Age; but Jessie stood up for me and -said, 'At any rate, he is a rock of sense.' Rather smart, eh?"</p> - -<p>"Yes," agreed Mrs. De Wolfe.</p> - -<p>"And then the General, that's my father," he explained to the old lady, -"has come forward nobly, and is going shares in the rent of Fairplains; -he and I, will be your tenants, Nance."</p> - -<p>"Yes, and I shall go out and stay with Jessie and you, for such -ages,—that you'll be obliged to leave home!"</p> - -<p>"And what about the gold?" inquired Mrs. De Wolfe.</p> - -<p>"I believe it's paying hand over fist. Nancy, you will remember Nicky -always swore that there was gold in those old workings. I thought it a -fairy tale, but when some engineer chaps came sniffing round for reefs, -Nicky put them on, and went down with them himself. The gold was all -right, and he has stuffed several thousands a year, into your pocket. -Mind you don't forget <i>that</i>!"</p> - -<p>"You may be sure I won't.—And so he is staying on at the Corner?"</p> - -<p>Teddy nodded.</p> - -<p>"Alone?" Her tone was significant.</p> - -<p>"I don't think so! Perhaps you can guess the name of the new partner? -By the way," lowering his voice, as he noted that Mrs. De Wolfe was -absorbed in the menu, "what about that chap?" ... name indistinct, to -the sharp-eared chaperon. "Do you ever hear anything of him?"</p> - -<p>"Never!" was the emphatic reply.</p> - -<p>Mrs. De Wolfe waited to hear more, and continued to stare steadily at -the word "asparagus." "He pays in the money for you to the day; it is -lying in my name at Grindlays—about six hundred pounds."</p> - -<p>The anxious matron felt immensely relieved; of course the money, had -to do with <i>coffee</i>. She laid down the card, and glanced over at -Nancy,—never had she seen her with so high a colour; and yet it was -not a warm evening, and the girl hadn't touched anything stronger -than barley water. Nancy, too, had violently assailed her with her -foot. Why? She was not aware that she had made a social blunder, or -<i>faux pas</i>; and how the girl chattered! Undoubtedly these tidings and -reminiscences, and "Plain tales from the hills," had excited her, and -made her rather odd and unlike herself!</p> - -<hr class="chap" /> - -<h2>CHAPTER XXV</h2> - -<h3>THE MEDITATIONS OF DEREK MAYNE</h3> - - -<p>The cable dispatched to Mayne, had been so urgent and alarming, that -he half expected to hear bad news when the mail steamer called at -Port Said,—however, neither cable nor letter awaited him. Arriving -in London early one May morning, he drove up to his mother's house in -Charles Street,—intending to ask for news and a meal. The door was -opened by a somewhat dishevelled footman, who informed him that "her -ladyship was out of town."</p> - -<p>"But was I not expected?" inquired the caller, glancing at his -luggage-laden taxi, "I am Captain Mayne."</p> - -<p>"Oh yes, sir, you were ex<i>pected</i>, but her ladyship said as 'ow you -couldn't possibly be here before Monday, and she and his lordship has -gone down to Brighton for the week-end."</p> - -<p>This was but a tepid welcome after an absence of some years; however, -there was nothing for Mayne to do, but re-enter the cab and have -himself driven to his club. Here, he encountered various old friends, -lunched, paid a hasty visit to his tailor, bought an umbrella, and took -the afternoon express to Campfield, the nearest station to Maynesfort.</p> - -<p>Maynesfort was a venerable, but well preserved Jacobean house (with -artfully hidden Georgian patches), and stood amidst delightful and -rural surroundings. On the south side, lay a prim Dutch garden, -beyond that, an undulating heavily wooded park,—both overlooked by -the windows of a once famous library. This library was now the chief -reception room; ever since the death of Mrs. Mayne, the drawing-rooms -had been closed!</p> - -<p>Here, the master of the house received his guests and tenants, here he -smoked, gossiped and read the newspapers—<i>The Times</i>, <i>The Field</i>, -<i>Country Life</i>, and with special avidity, the local Rag,—but he -never opened a book,—although encompassed by thousands of neglected -volumes.—He was not, as he boastfully declared, "a reading man." -"Jorrocks" was his favourite hero; his, was an outdoor temperament; -hunting, shooting, gardening, and farming were all to his taste; and -the house was merely a sort of refuge, where he ate, and slept; four -weeks' incarceration indoors, was to him an unexampled experience. On -a lounge in the library, surrounded by a volume of tobacco smoke, and -attended by a buxom nurse, the invalid was found by his nephew and heir.</p> - -<p>Richard Mayne, J.P. and D.L., was a remarkably active little man, some -years over seventy; he had keen dark eyes, flexible brows, a firm, -clean shaven mouth, and a pleasant smile. The arrival of his nephew, -afforded him real and unqualified pleasure, and he greeted him with -outstretched hands, and a full resonant voice—by no means the feeble -squeak of an invalid.—"Got your wire this morning, sent the car, glad -to see you, my boy—very glad!"</p> - -<p>"And how are you, Uncle Dick? you look fairly fit. Going on all right, -eh, nurse!" glancing at his companion.</p> - -<p>"Yes, Mr. Mayne has made a remarkable recovery," she rejoined, "I -expect in a few weeks, he will be quite out of my hands," and she rose -and retired, leaving the uncle and nephew to themselves.</p> - -<p>"It's the healthy outdoor life, eh, 'um, 'um, that's what has stood to -me—but I tell you, when that brute rolled on me, I thought it was a -case for the undertaker!</p> - -<p>"Yes," assented his nephew, "from that cable, I was afraid you were in -a bad way, Uncle Dick, and I'm awfully glad to find you so well."</p> - -<p>"We wrote to Port Said to tell you I was going on all right,—but I -daresay we missed the mail. You are looking uncommonly fit, not a bit -yellow or tucked up! India has taken no toll off <i>you</i>: good stations, -good sport, 'um, 'um?"</p> - -<p>After such a long absence from home, there was much for Mayne to hear, -and for his uncle to impart; the old gentleman was a fluent talker, -and enchanted to get hold of a listener, to whom all his news was -absolutely fresh. He was ten times more anxious to relate, than to -listen, and unfolded a heavy budget,—without displaying any curiosity -as to what the traveller might have to offer in exchange?</p> - -<p>First, there were the full details of his accident,—including the -weather, the condition of the ground, the character, and pedigree of -the horse; then came "the case," the doctors, the specialist, and a -warm eulogium of his nurses. After this, the county news; succeeded by -estate and domestic intelligence; who had come, and who had gone, how -the pheasants had done; how the great fig tree was dead,—also the hen -swan, and the old woman at the west lodge.</p> - -<p>Mayne found the place but little changed—everything in the same -apple-pie order. Maynesfort was his uncle's hobby, he loved the old -place with an absorbing passion,—and to tell the truth found her a -very extravagant mistress! A series of reckless predecessors, had -dissipated and gambled away the property, till but about a thousand -acres remained; and although the owner lived, so to speak, rent free, -there was much to maintain; the ancient house like its kind, was in -constant want of repair; the drains, the roof, the chimneys, called for -outlay, and supervision; the gardens, greenhouses, and avenues, had to -be kept up,—as Maynesfort had a reputation to support, and there were -no nice fat farms, to bring in a steady revenue.</p> - -<p>The late Mrs. Mayne, had been a woman of fortune, and her money -had assisted to maintain Maynesfort, as a sort of show place.—Its -mullioned windows and heavy chimney stacks, were a great feature on the -local post cards.</p> - -<p>As the long May days went by, the heir of Maynesfort found time to hang -heavily on his hands,—although he successfully concealed the fact. -There was no shooting, except a few pigeon of an evening; naturally -there was no hunting, he was not a fisherman; most of the neighbours -were in London for the season, and the Parsonage was in quarantine -with scarlet fever. Mayne rode about the lanes on an elderly cob, -strolled through the park and gardens, played cricket with the village -team,—but still the days were long and empty.</p> - -<p>He read the papers to his uncle, played dominoes and backgammon, and -even "cut-throat" Bridge with him and the nurse. He smoked many pipes, -and listened to many stories: descriptions of the season's good runs, -and best days' shooting.</p> - -<p>Strange to say, the old gentleman exhibited but little or no interest -in Indian sport,—nor wished to hear, in what way his nephew had passed -the last four years? It was sufficient for him to know that he was -there, sitting opposite to him, looking a little older,—but both hale, -and hearty.</p> - -<p>Richard Mayne was a man of one idea at a time,—but that idea, excluded -all others, and would occasionally hold the fort of his mind for -months. His present obsession, was, that Mayne should, could, and -must, marry,—and that without delay. At first his nephew had put -the suggestion aside with a joke, and a laugh; but he soon realized -that indifference and frivolity raised his uncle's ire; the flexible -eyebrows went up and down, or met, alarmingly; the "'um, 'um, 'ums" -came thick, and fast,—he resigned himself to the situation, and -suffered the old gentleman to talk and talk, and even to arrange a -formal, and imaginary parade of all the available spinsters in the -county!</p> - -<p>"You see, my dear boy," he urged, "that time, when I was lying on my -back, and they were not quite sure, if I was internally injured, I -could not help thinking of this dear old place,—and its new master."</p> - -<p>"What nonsense, Uncle Dick," protested Mayne, "you will be master here -for years, and years."</p> - -<p>"No, no," waving away the idea, "if I'd snuffed out, you would have -had to come back, and take over my shoes, and sit here all alone; no -mistress for the house; so I made up my mind, that if I recovered, I'd -take right good care to see you <i>married</i>; married to some nice girl -with money; family not so important, you have enough family for both! -Now tell me, Derek, is there any young woman, you have a fancy for?"</p> - -<p>"No, not one."</p> - -<p>"Well, then, my dear boy, you must look round, now you are at home, and -find a pretty girl, with a pretty fortune, that will keep the old place -on its legs,—otherwise it might have to be <i>let</i>, and if that came to -pass, I believe I'd come out of the family vault! You know your aunt's -money goes back to her own people; the property itself is not worth -much. There is the grazing, and the woods, and Jones sells some of the -garden stuff, but the men's wages and coal and coke, run into hundreds -a year; our gambling ancestors staked farms and livings, and fishing -rights on the length of a straw, or the activity of a snail, and I tell -you, my blood boils when I think of them!"</p> - -<p>"To marry, to look out for a nice girl with money," was the "motive," -which, like the ever recurring air in an opera, ran through all Mr. -Mayne's jokes, reminiscences, and solemn exhortations to his nephew; -the subject became intolerable; his good nature and patience were -wearing a little thin, and it was an immense relief to escape into the -park of an afternoon, whilst the invalid dozed, there to wander about, -accompanied by two happy brown spaniels.</p> - -<p>To find himself thrown entirely upon his own society, was a rare -experience for Derek Mayne; opportunities to meditate, and hold counsel -with his subconscious self, were invariably passed over and neglected; -his impulse was for action, to be up and doing, not thinking, or -mooning; but for once he found his thoughts arrested, and intensely -occupied, by his uncle's "idea," for once, he approached a subject, -with which he had hitherto refused to grapple,—and a swarm of -thoughts, not hitherto entertained, suddenly invaded his brain.</p> - -<p>It was his nature to face things—but there was one stern fact, he had -always thrust aside. "Nancy!—their marriage! What was to be the end -of that coil?" Was he to go through life alone?—to live in that place -in the hollow, with no companionship, and no affection,—save what was -offered by the dogs? He might, he believed,—though he had never looked -into the subject,—obtain a divorce for desertion; but the idea was -repugnant,—such an action impossible!</p> - -<p>He thought of Travers, who had given his life for him,—his anxiety -about the future of his little girl; the subsequent relief, and -gratitude he had read in those dying eyes; how could he drag "the -little girl" into the blaze and publicity of "a case in the courts"; -oh, it was altogether a deadly business, and yet, where had he gone -wrong? Possibly, when he had suffered a mere chit of eighteen, to -take command of the situation; on the other hand, he recalled with a -guilty qualm, his sense of profound relief, and satisfaction, when he -discovered that she had cut the knot, severed their bonds, and fled!</p> - -<p>The haunting vision of a miserable, white-faced, blighted, flapper, -accompanying him back to Cannanore, had undoubtedly had its terrors; -his colonel did not encourage matrimony,—it spoiled the mess,—and all -his little world would marvel at his choice! He wondered what Nancy was -like now? and what were her surroundings? Possibly she lived in some -third rate suburban circle, was prominent in the local tennis club, -wore home-made frocks, adored (platonically) some preacher or actor, -and led her old aunt by the nose. Only for the secret tie, which held -him, he might have been married long ere this. There was that lively -little girl up at Murree. What marvellous red hair, how she danced and -chattered; and she had liked him too,—but he had never gone beyond -the flirting stage, or dropped into serious love-making; the memory of -Fairplains constrained him.</p> - -<p>A pretty face, had always appealed to Mayne, and certainly Nancy was -no beauty,—possibly by now, she had improved in appearance,—when her -complexion was no longer exposed to the sun, and her hair was properly -dressed, she might pass in a crowd; she would always be quick witted, -quick footed, and quick tempered. After much serious reflection, and -many pipes, he came to the conclusion, that now he was at home, it -was his business to find out something about <i>Mrs. Mayne</i>. The name -made him pause, and laugh aloud,—to the great bewilderment of the two -spaniels.—He need not necessarily seek an interview, no, far from it; -but he might as well make cautious inquiries, and discover where she -lived? and what she was doing?</p> - -<p>Mrs. Ffinch was the right woman to lend him a helping hand, and as she -was expected home within the next few weeks, he would ask her to look -up Nancy, without bringing him into the question. Here was a field for -her particular activities; it was just the sort of commission she would -eagerly undertake, and thoroughly enjoy.</p> - -<p>At the end of a fortnight, Mayne prepared to take his departure for -London; not without a half expected, and feared, opposition on the part -of his uncle; but to his surprise and joy, the old gentleman received -his hint of a move, without demur,—for he assured himself, that Derek -was about to act on his advice, and "look about him," and the sooner -he commenced his quest, the better. It was true that he had given no -definite promise; he had said but little; just lounged, and smoked, -and stared at the carpet, or out of the window; however, it was a well -known, and well proved adage, that "silence gives consent."</p> - -<p>It was with a blissful sense of escape, that Mayne found himself seated -in the car, and once more bound for Campfield station. The sensation -was unusual,—for it was the first time, that he had ever felt glad to -leave Maynesfort, and he was secretly ashamed of his joyful relief. The -old man, accustomed to a life of constant outdoor activity, was putting -in a dull time,—and it had enlivened his empty hours, to build castles -in the air,—instead of model cottages,—and reckon upon the future -of his successor's wife, yes—and children! The nurseries had not been -occupied for nearly fifty years; but as the car skimmed round the last -bend in the avenue, and the tall chimney stacks sank out of sight, -Mayne, as he lighted his cigar, sternly assured himself, that as far as -<i>he</i> was concerned,—Maynesfort would never have a mistress.</p> - -<hr class="chap" /> - -<h2>CHAPTER XXVI</h2> - -<h3>THE MEETING</h3> - - -<p>The new arrival in Charles Street soon discovered that he had by no -means bettered his position, on the contrary, appeared to have gone out -of the frying-pan, into the fire! Four years had wrought surprising -changes in the ménage: Lord Torquilstone had become "more so," as -Mayne mentally expressed it; his moustache was blacker, his coat more -padded, his temper more irascible, than formerly. He belonged to a type -of club man happily becoming extinct,—loud, aggressive in argument, -quarrelsome, gouty, and greedy. He and her ladyship did not now hit -it off,—and saw as little of one another as their mutual ingenuity -could contrive. She, never appeared before one o'clock; he, lunched, -and frequently dined, at his club,—unless they happened to have a -few guests, or were engaged to present themselves, at some particular -function.</p> - -<p>Mayne noticed a woeful alteration in his mother; she looked faded, and -worn, there were deep lines about her mouth, her voice was querulous, -and her attitude the pose of one enduring "the bitter winter of her -discontent!" In her cold, unemotional way, she was glad to welcome -Derek, a handsome, creditable fellow and like his father; but in -character much stronger, and more self-assertive.</p> - -<p>He seemed to be thoroughly capable of shaping his own life, had -excellent manners, plenty to say for himself, and judging by the number -of his letters, with regimental, and other crests, was claimed by hosts -of friends! In honour of his return, Lord Torquilstone dined at home, -and abused the dinner; and he and his wife passed the young man under -the harrow of a searching examination, with respect to his life, during -the last four years. Mayne found it useless to protest, "But Mater, you -had my letters."</p> - -<p>"Yes, my dear boy,—they were rather dull. Not your fault I know, I -always hated India,—the deadly paradise of the middle class. It's just -what was <i>not</i> in your letters, that I want to hear about."</p> - -<p>"Oh well, if you mean manœuvres, camps of exercise——"</p> - -<p>"Don't be so silly," she interrupted impatiently.</p> - -<p>"Your mother wants to hear about those lively grass widows up in -Simla," broke in his lordship; "come now, own up!" and he chuckled -diabolically.</p> - -<p>"I have nothing to own. Never had any use for the frisky matron, at -home, or abroad."</p> - -<p>"Oh, Derek," protested his mother, "what about Josie Speyde?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, what about <i>her</i>?" leaning back, with his hands in his pockets.</p> - -<p>"You were one of her boys, I know!"</p> - -<p>"She taught me to dance,—I'll say that for her."</p> - -<p>"She taught you to flirt too."</p> - -<p>"Don't expect the fellow wanted much teaching!" broke in Lord -Torquilstone. "Any nice little girls out in India?"</p> - -<p>"Oh yes, lots."</p> - -<p>"I hope you didn't leave your heart, behind, Derek? I warn you that as -daughter-in-law, I refuse to receive an Indian spin."</p> - -<p>"Oh, there's no fear of that," replied Derek, lighting a cigarette, and -tossing the match into the fireplace.</p> - -<p>"I suppose you know your uncle is very anxious that you should marry."</p> - -<p>"I suppose I do know! I suppose he has it on the brain, I've heard of -nothing else,—he has driven me to the verge of idiocy."</p> - -<p>"You were twenty-nine last April; time to be looking about, Derek. I -know some charming girls; I do hope you will let <i>me</i> have a say?"</p> - -<p>"Oh, my dear mother, you are welcome to as many says as you like, but I -haven't the smallest intention of marrying."</p> - -<p>"That's the way you young fellows talk," declared Lord Torquilstone, -setting down an empty glass, "and then before you know where you are, -you're <i>caught</i>," and he glanced at his wife with deadly significance.</p> - -<p>"I'd like to see the girl, who could put salt on my tail," rejoined his -stepson with extravagant confidence.</p> - -<p>"Well now, Mater," glancing at his watch and rising as he spoke, "if -you'll excuse me, I'm going out."</p> - -<p>"Going out!" she repeated blankly, "<i>where</i> are you going?"</p> - -<p>"To look on at a boxing match; I have promised to join a couple of -fellows at the Sports Club."</p> - -<p>"A boxing match, how horrible—disgusting!"</p> - -<p>"Well, I admit that it's not exactly a pretty sight sometimes; but I -like to see an active muscular fellow, that knows how to use his fists; -I do a little in that line myself. I won't be in till all hours,—so -I'll take a latch-key."</p> - -<p>Before her ladyship could offer any further objection, he had kissed -her on her powdered cheek, nodded to his stepfather, and departed.</p> - -<p>"Quite his own master!" remarked his mother, as she heard the whistle -for a taxi, "and I had promised to take him to the Rutherfords' 'at -home!' Last night he was at the Opera,—it's almost impossible to get -hold of him."</p> - -<p>"You'll find some young woman will get hold of him," snarled Lord -Torquilstone. "I hope she'll be, er! er! respectable. It's just those -young fellows home on leave—that the worst of women pounce on."</p> - -<p>Upon this subject, arose an immediate argument, Lady Torquilstone -declaring, that "no man with good blood in his veins, would be likely -to marry out of his class." Her husband held the opposite view, and -backed his opinion, with an imposing string of names. The argument -waxed louder, and presently developed into a personal quarrel, and -(unmindful of the grey parrot's warning cry, of "Hullo! Hullo! Police! -Police!") they continued exchanging nasty thrusts, until a footman -brought in the ten o'clock post, and her ladyship having collected her -letters, left the smoking-room, fortified with the consciousness, that -the last word, had been <i>hers</i>.</p> - -<hr class="tb" /> - -<p>It was the day of a very "Big" race at Sandown, the weather was -perfection, and half society, and all the racing world poured out of -London in a long succession of specials.</p> - -<p>Captain Mayne and a brother officer, had secured the last two seats -in a smoking carriage; the train was just about to start, when the -door was wrenched open, and a tall young man, leapt in, and hauled a -girl after him. A stout individual by the window, rose, and offered -the lady his place, and he and her companion, stood,—blocking up -the compartment. "By Jove, that was a near squeak," exclaimed the -young man, breathless, but triumphant. Mayne recognized him as an -acquaintance—the Honourable Tony Lamerton.</p> - -<p>"Yes!" panted his companion, "what a race! I wonder what has become of -the others?"</p> - -<p>"Left behind, I'll bet. I'll swear her ladyship could never leg it down -the platform, as you did!"</p> - -<p>"Then pray, what am I to do for a chaperon?" and the girl laughed.</p> - -<p>There was something in the voice and laugh, that sounded oddly familiar -to Mayne, and suddenly leaning forward, he looked round the substantial -figure, which was planted directly in front of him. The first glance, -gave an impression of a remarkably pretty girl; then with a shock, it -dawned upon him, that the pretty girl was <i>Nancy</i>! A Nancy altered -almost beyond recognition: beauty the crown of her youth!</p> - -<p>It seemed to Mayne that nothing remained of the original flapper, -but her merry blue eyes, and sweet, high-pitched voice. Her face was -rounded, her complexion—if real,—was dazzling. She was dressed with -surpassing elegance, in a gauzy white gown, touched with green; a large -hat wreathed with green feathers, half concealed masses of reddish -brown hair, a string of splendid pearls encircled her throat, and in -her little white gloved hand, she held a gold bag, and a card of the -races. Undoubtedly her aunt was a woman of wealth, and did not spare it -upon her niece.</p> - -<p>The niece was so engaged in laughing and chattering with Tony Lamerton, -that Mayne had ample time to collect his wits, and make a prolonged and -critical inspection. Nancy carried herself, with an air of graceful -confidence, and the manner of one who was aware of her own value; and -yet the face wore the same eager, almost childish expression; and a -look of innocent mockery danced in the eyes that were raised to Tony -Lamerton. Here was a beauty! an assured, and fashionable young woman; -she and Tony appeared to be on the best of terms, and he noticed that -the Guardsman's attention, was entirely absorbed by his lovely charge.</p> - -<p>As the train cleared the suburbs, a clear young voice, said, "How -dreadfully hot it is!! may we not have the other window down?" and as -the stout gentleman instantly moved to obey her request, Nancy became -suddenly aware of Derek Mayne! He was seated in the far corner, and -hitherto concealed behind a bulky screen.</p> - -<p>His grave dark eyes, encountered her startled glance, with the most -penetrating composure. Yes, it certainly <i>was</i> Captain Mayne,—but -little changed, beyond the transformation effected by London clothes, -a tall hat and a buttonhole. How different to the rough Shikari garb, -in which she had been accustomed to see him! When their eyes met in -recognition, Nancy was sensible of an overwhelming shock; she gave -little outward sign, beyond a quick indrawing of her breath, but her -heart had made such a violent plunge, that it seemed about to leap out -of her mouth!</p> - -<p>Here within three yards of her, was the last man in the world, she -expected, or wished to see. A man, she had almost succeeded in turning -out of her mind, and to whom for weeks she never cast a thought. The -discovery left her nerveless; every morsel of colour deserted her face -and lips. The last time they met, was when they had stood beside her -father's grave: that was exactly two years and four months ago, and -although she had instantly averted her eyes, he was still before them; -vividly different to her somewhat faded mental picture—that of a -worried restless young man, smoking endless cigarettes, as he paced the -terrace at Fairplains.</p> - -<p>During this little scene, Tony and the stout gentleman had taken it -in turn to struggle with an obstinate window sash, and as the former -turned about, his eyes fell upon an old acquaintance. In a voice of -hearty welcome, he exclaimed,</p> - -<p>"Hullo! Mayne, when did you get back?"</p> - -<p>"Three weeks ago."</p> - -<p>"And never came near us,—how is that?"</p> - -<p>"I've been down at Maynesfort."</p> - -<p>"Oh yes, to see the old man! Getting on all right, isn't he? and now -you're doing a bit of town, eh?—What are you backing for the big race?"</p> - -<p>As Mayne discussed the favourites and weights, he noticed that Nancy -had recovered her composure and colour; her self-possession was -marvellous; but then he was not aware, that she had been through a -rigorous training in a stern school, and had learnt to successfully -repress her feelings and emotions. For the moment, she appeared to be -engrossed in the study of her race card; but unless Mayne was greatly -mistaken, it was not altogether the oscillation of the express, which -caused that pretty little hand, to shake quite perceptibly!</p> - -<hr class="chap" /> - -<h2>CHAPTER XXVII</h2> - -<h3>OLD FRIENDS AND STRANGE NEWS</h3> - - -<p>By some unexplained miracle it turned out that Nancy's chaperon—Lady -Jane Wynne—had actually caught the train, and Mayne overheard the -party volubly congratulating one another, as they moved out of the -station. And so that slim girl in white, carrying a green sunshade, was -Mrs. Mayne! Among all that great crowd, there was no one to approach -her in looks and distinction. If people were to know the truth, how -widely he would be envied!</p> - -<p>His uncle clamoured for him to take a wife, and there she was, -strolling up the path in front of him—supported on either hand by -an assiduous escort. Supposing he were to claim her? Here was a -very different individual to the poor little girl in India, who was -distracted with grief, and misery. There was something amazingly -attractive about this new, and radiant Nancy. His inspection in the -railway carriage, had shown him, an undeniably <i>happy</i> face!</p> - -<p>Meanwhile the object of his reflections,—for all her assumed -animation—felt shattered, by her recent experience, and talked the -wildest nonsense to her companions, as she made her way to the stand. -Here numerous acquaintances accosted, and surrounded her and her -party. To-day, Miss Travers' gaiety was feverish, her colour unusually -high, and her laugh almost hysterical. Soon after the second race, she -complained of a headache, and sought a seat on the way to the paddock, -where, attended by Sir Dudley Villars, she sheltered behind her -sunshade.</p> - -<p>Sir Dudley was not a racing man; cards, he could understand; but -betting, and backing horses, he looked upon as childish! Races, were -all right, as institutions—where you met your friends, had a fair -lunch, inspected the newest beauties, and heard the latest gossip. To -sit by Nancy Travers, studying her exquisite complexion, listening to -her somewhat disjointed chatter, was a thousand times more agreeable, -than being precariously perched on the top of a stand, following with -a field-glass, the speedy movements, of a little bunch of thoroughbreds!</p> - -<p>During a lull, before one of the big events, a seemingly endless -procession passed backwards and forwards between the paddock, and the -stand. Sir Dudley pointed out various celebrities to Nancy,—adding in -each case some pithy, or cynical remark. She did not wish to be noticed -and accosted, and kept her parasol well before her face, but the hat of -her companion seemed to be scarcely ever on his head; his acquaintance -appeared to be as the sands of the sea!</p> - -<p>"There's the Duchess of Doncaster,—I see she is bringing out her -second girl,—hard luck on Lady Alfreda. There's Claverhouse of the -Blues, and the little American widow; I wonder if <i>that</i> will come off?"</p> - -<hr class="tb" /> - -<p>These and other remarks were received by his partner, with nods -and monosyllables. Her thoughts were elsewhere; her mind was in a -tumult of fear, and bewilderment. Supposing Derek Mayne were to come -forward, and claim her; what was to be her attitude? What would -Mrs. De Wolfe think?—yes, and all her girl friends,—who talked to -her so frankly, of their love affairs; Nora Wynne, Brenda Miller, -and various others,—for she looked and was, a born confidante, and -sympathizer,—what would be their feelings, when they were informed, -that their simple Nancy had actually a <i>husband</i> in the background? Her -reflections were interrupted by her companion suddenly asking, "I hope -you had a good day?"</p> - -<p>"'A good day?'" she repeated to herself. It was one of the <i>worst</i>, she -had ever known! But she smiled faintly, and replied, "Oh, yes,—I've -won! Tony Lamerton has given me tips. I put ten shillings on 'Dear Me.'"</p> - -<p>"So I see that fellow Mayne is home again," remarked Sir Dudley; -"strolling about with his old love,—Josie Speyde. She is looking -remarkably well to-day,—those daring colours, suit her bold, black -style."</p> - -<p>Nancy raised her sunshade a couple of inches, and peeped out -cautiously. There they were! promenading slowly together, Josie talking -and gesticulating with unusual animation, and Mayne?—she surveyed -him critically,—yes, he was remarkably good-looking; well set-up, -well-dressed, and could hold his own, even with her present companion!</p> - -<p>"Do you know him?" she faltered.</p> - -<p>"Who? Oh, Mayne?—yes. Not very well, he's in my club, and we just pass -the time of day. Not a bad-looking chap; one of the rough-and-ready -sort: goes in for polo, boxing, and soldiering. He's afflicted with the -most appalling stepfather, Torquilstone,—I actually had to leave the -High Light Club, as I simply couldn't stand him; he seemed to <i>live</i> -in the smoking-room, and never gave us a day off! I hear that Mayne's -people are keen to get him married, and that Lady Torquilstone is -looking about for a suitable daughter-in-law,—no penniless beauty need -apply."</p> - -<p>It did not strike Sir Dudley that he had said anything particularly -humorous, yet Nancy had burst into rather a wild, and unexpected -laugh. How odd, and jerky she was to-day! headaches affected people in -different ways: as he looked at her shining eyes, and brilliant colour, -he leant towards her, and said in his most seductive manner:</p> - -<p>"If you will be a good little girl, you won't sit here in the sun, but -allow me to take you straight home; and go and lie down, and have ice -on your head."</p> - -<p>"Ice!" she repeated; "you have put it <i>into</i> my head! I'm dying for -one, and here comes Tony; I promised I'd let him take me to their tent. -I'll be quite all right to-morrow; we were such a frightful squash -in our carriage coming down, that I was nearly suffocated with the -heat,"—then rising as she spoke, "Here I am, Tony! I'm coming; did I -<i>really</i> win five pounds!"—as he handed her a note. "Well, I'll give -it to the Dog's Home."</p> - -<p>Sir Dudley, who felt himself injured, and deserted, relinquished his -pretty companion with what grace he could assume, and swept off his -hat in his very best style. As he looked after the couple, he said to -himself, "'Dogs' Home!' Much better return it to that bumptious young -puppy,—who by all accounts is uncommonly hard up!"</p> - -<p>Mayne, man-like, was not nearly so overwhelmed by their recent -encounter as Nancy. He was still able to make bets, talk sanely to -friends, and to follow the racing, with the keenest interest (although -running through his thoughts, and keeping well ahead of the horses, -was Mrs. Mayne). His present idea, was to make a move; a quiet cautious -move, and try to find out, how the land lay? He had not failed to -notice Nancy's numerous admirers; more than once, he had focussed -her through his glasses, and though she played the "Ostrich," he was -perfectly aware of the identity of the girl, who was sitting on the -lawn, with that tame cat, Dudley Villars!—A tame, but <i>not</i> domestic -cat! he knew something about him; and what he knew, was not to his -advantage. A song-singing, insidious, unscrupulous, rascal,—and no fit -companion for any innocent girl.</p> - -<p>The sight of Villars, and his proprietary attitude, had awakened -Mayne's jealousy, and materialized his intentions; he must see, and -that without delay, how he could approach Nancy? Possibly some friendly -third person, would assist him? It would be, he was aware,—a most -delicate enterprise, yet "nothing venture, nothing have!"</p> - -<p>As Mayne and a friend, were leaving the paddock, they almost ran into -Teddy Dawson, Mrs. Hicks, and Jessie; he halted at once. This amazing -encounter, was as unexpected, as it was providential! Here, as it were -spirited from the ends of the earth,—were two of the witnesses to his -marriage! and Dawson his best man, would stand by him now, as formerly.</p> - -<p>The greetings of the little party were exceedingly cordial. Mrs. -Hicks, Jessie and Ted were unaffectedly delighted to see Mayne. Teddy -was now presentable, and "more,"—as his fiancée said,—"like a human -being!" Mrs. Hicks radiantly happy, and attired in a bright green gown, -with a pink silk frill round her neck,—recalled to Mayne, the common -parroquet of India!</p> - -<p>To secure a word with Teddy, Mayne presented his brother officer to the -two ladies, and drawing him aside, said in an undertone:</p> - -<p>"Guess <i>who's</i> here?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, I know; I've seen her," replied Teddy; "isn't she ripping? Takes -the whole cake, eh? Have you met?"</p> - -<p>"We came down in the same carriage just now; she cut me dead!"</p> - -<p>"Oh well, I expect she was a bit taken aback——"</p> - -<p>"Look here, Dawson, I want to see you,—I <i>must</i> see you! I know -your time is not your own,—but fix an early date to dine,—or -something!—My club is the 'Rag.'"</p> - -<p>"And mine's the 'Oriental.'"</p> - -<p>"I say, you two," interposed Mrs. Hicks, laying a yellow claw, on -Mayne's arm, "I won't have this! When two men get so confidential, I -know they're after no good! Oh, I'm up to all your little games!" and -she poked Mayne sharply with her fan. "If you are fixing a dinner, -you must both dine with <i>me</i>! I know of such a nice, risky little -restaurant, in Soho, where they do you 'A 1' for half a crown; and -we'll all go on to a music-hall afterwards. Now, you come along, and -get me a cup of tea," taking possession of Mayne; "I suppose you have -tickets?" and still holding him fast, she led him captive towards -the refreshment room. "I'm awfully glad you're home at <i>last</i>," she -remarked, with significant emphasis.</p> - -<p>"Thank you," said Mayne,—meeting the amused eye of a friend, who -stared hard at the lady on his arm.</p> - -<p>"It's on account of Nancy," she continued, confidentially; "have you -<i>seen</i> her?"</p> - -<p>"Yes; to-day."</p> - -<p>"Now, who would have thought, she'd bloom out into such a beauty! But -her mother was rarely pretty,—and you saw the Earl for yourself. -Jessie and me lunched with Nancy, and the old lady yesterday; the old -lady has a voice comes out of her boots, and Nancy is just the same as -ever!"</p> - -<p>"Is she?"</p> - -<p>"Come now; don't you be so stiff, and stand off; it isn't every man who -has a beauty, and a real nice girl for a wife. And then there's all the -<i>money</i>!" and she nodded her head complacently.</p> - -<p>"Money? What money?" he asked.</p> - -<p>"Oh, Lord! haven't you heard? Why, she's got <i>tons</i> of it."</p> - -<p>Mayne stared at his companion interrogatively.</p> - -<p>"Just squeeze me in there, and get me a cup of tea,—two lumps! and -<i>then</i> I'll tell you all about it in a jiffy!"</p> - -<p>With a teacup in her hand, Mrs. Hicks resumed: "Do you <i>mean</i> to say, -that you never heard, that Mr. Fletcher left Fairplains to Nancy?"</p> - -<p>"No. Did he really?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, and a couple of thousand a year, as well."</p> - -<p>After a long pause, he asked, "How long ago?"</p> - -<p>"About eighteen months. She was living with an aunt,—a real terror, -by all accounts, and having a mighty poor time, and then she came in -for this legacy. An old lady who had a fancy for Nancy, took her in -hand, and they have been knocking about the Continent for quite a time. -Now they are staying at the Hyde Park Hotel. The old lady, who has no -family, is just wrapped up in Nancy. She's one of the 'ordering-about -sort,' and has a man's nose, and deep voice. Her name is De Wolfe!"</p> - -<p>"De Wolfe!" repeated her listener, in amazement. "Are you quite sure?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, I'm both sure, and certain,—how could anyone forget such an -outlandish name as that?"</p> - -<p>"I know Mrs. De Wolfe well," said Mayne, "she and I come from the same -part of the world."</p> - -<p>"I am glad to hear it, and you can take over Nancy. It is not fair or -respectable, that she should be going about as Miss Travers, turning -all the men's heads,—when you and I know, that she's a married woman!"</p> - -<p>Mayne made no reply, but accepted an empty teacup in silence, and Mrs. -Hicks continued: "Of course, you will leave the service, and take a -fine country place; for there's not only the Fletcher money, but the -gold mine. I see! you've not heard of that, I suppose! They are working -a big reef on Fairplains,—you know the place near Chuttibutti?"</p> - -<p>"I've heard nothing whatever about Fairplains, since I last saw you," -said Mayne, after a considerable pause, during which an agreeable -day-dream, had been completely dispelled.</p> - -<p>"You've only yourself to thank for that!" said Mrs. Hicks, shaking the -crumbs from her green plumage. "You went away to the north of India, -and dropped the whole lot of us, like so many 'ot potatoes. Those -old workings have turned out very valuable,—Hicks always believed -in them.—They say, they are bringing Nancy in about eight thousand -a year, and will be worth more, as time goes on! What do you think -of that?"—and she poked him facetiously with her pocket-fan. "Why, -I declare, to look at you, one would say you'd lost a fortune! Come, -come! buck up!"</p> - -<p>"Mother!" interrupted Jessie breathlessly, "I've been looking for you -everywhere; we are going to try, and catch the next train. You know we -are dining in town, and doing a play,—so <i>do</i>, do make haste! Captain -Mayne, you'll come, and see us, won't you?"</p> - -<p>"Why, of course he will," replied her mother; "he and I have no end to -say to one another,"—then turning to him, "Our address—have you a -pencil, and I'll write it out on a bit of the race-card,—Torkington -House, Baron's Court, quite in the wilds; but you're used to that! It -was in the wilds that we met, ha! ha!"</p> - -<p>"Oh, <i>do</i> come, mother!" cried Jessie, and seizing her by the arm, -she dragged her parent almost forcibly away, but Teddy hung back -for a second,—and said, "I'll telephone to your club, and fix a -meeting!"—then he ran.</p> - -<p>A change had come o'er the spirit of Mayne's dream; a bolt had -descended from the blue! If Nancy had ten thousand a year, or -thereabouts, how, he asked himself, could he come forward, and claim -her? He had suddenly lost all interest in the meeting,—he had also -mislaid his companion, and strolled over, and leant on the rails; -not as others, watching an exciting race, but digesting Mrs. Hicks' -unwelcome information. Her news, had altered the whole of his plans. -Plans hastily made; and as hastily shattered.</p> - -<p>Suddenly a heavy hand smote him on the back, and turning about he -beheld Major Cathcart, looking remarkably spruce, and cheerful. "Glad -to see you, old man," he began. "All the world seems to have turned up -here to-day; and what a rare good meeting! I have pulled off a nice -little haul." Then, after an expressive pause.... "<i>You've</i> had a bad -time, I'm afraid!"</p> - -<p>"Oh, no," replied Mayne, standing erect, and facing the speaker, -"<i>I've</i> done pretty well, too."</p> - -<p>"I say," now indicating a flowing tide of departures,—"if you are -going by this train, we may as well toddle down together, and discuss -old times."</p> - -<p>Mayne nodded assent, and turned to accompany him.</p> - -<p>"Where are you staying?" inquired Cathcart.</p> - -<p>"With my mother, in Charles Street."</p> - -<p>"And what leave have they given you?"</p> - -<p>"All I asked for—three months."</p> - -<p>"Of course you'll get an extension! Do you know that there has been -quite a gathering of the hill tribes here to-day? I spotted Mrs. -Hicks,—by George, what a sight! she ought to be in the Zoo, among -the cockatoos. Her eldest girl, and Teddy Dawson, were with her, and -then there's you and me,—and last but not least, Miss Nancy Travers! -There's a transformation! She's a tremendous success, I can tell you. -Men actually biting, and scratching one another, to get hold of her -at dances, and so on. She's deuced ornamental, and well gilded too! -and has slipped into the rôle of heiress, and beauty,—as easily as -an old glove. You'd never believe she is the same girl as our little -red-haired flapper! Have you come across her?"</p> - -<p>"Not ... er ... to speak to."</p> - -<p>"Well, all in good time; you and she used to be rather chummy, and by -Jove, she could play tennis a bit! Mrs. De Wolfe, her chaperon, is a -crafty old woman, and knows all the best people. She will do her best -to fix a coronet, on that girl's head. I hear Lord Lanark is in the -last stage of idiocy. I must confess I am rather surprised, that Mrs. -De Wolfe allows Miss Nancy to be seen about with that fellow Villars. -I am told, that he was always one of the little family party, on Como; -painting, boating and caterwauling and all that sort of thing! He got -the girl a good deal talked about,—but that's his little way!"</p> - -<p>"Mayne never had much to say for himself," thought his companion, "now -he did not seem to have a word, to throw at the traditional dog; but -appeared to be totally dumb, and an absolutely uninterested listener. -Well, there were crowds of other fellows, with whom he could improve -the shining half-hour, to town," so with a "See you later on," Cathcart -shook off this deadly wet-blanket, and hailed a passing acquaintance.</p> - -<hr class="chap" /> - -<h2>CHAPTER XXVIII</h2> - -<h3>"ADVICE GRATIS"</h3> - - -<p>For once, Mrs. De Wolfe was hopelessly puzzled; something had happened -the day of the races at Sandown; for ever since that date, Nancy was -a changed creature; her amazing spirits appeared to have evaporated; -she no longer entered into plans, with the same keen enthusiasm, but -was restless, nervous, and given to surprising fits of silence. Her -anxious chaperon dated this phase, from the afternoon when she had -confided her charge into the hands of Jane Wynne; yet Jane Wynne could -throw no light on the matter—although her aunt had approached her -with the most careful, and subtle questions. The girl did not bet, -she had no quarrel with anyone, nor had she lost any treasured bit of -jewellery,—something had gone much deeper than <i>that</i>. What was it?</p> - -<p>Nancy described in somewhat laborious detail, the crowd, the -heat,—which had given her a headache,—she had met masses of people -she knew, including the Hicks, and Teddy; the Millers were there in -great force, including Lady Miller in a wonderful French frock; but the -glare was dreadful, and she had not enjoyed herself one bit. "How I -wish I had stayed at home, with you, and sat out in the cool under the -trees," she concluded, as she had bent over her old friend, and kissed -her between her somewhat bushy eyebrows.</p> - -<p>Subsequently, Mrs. De Wolfe (who was credited with eyes in the back of -her head) noted, that when they were in the park, at a polo match, or a -dance, Nancy seemed to be looking about her nervously, as if in quest -of someone: some individual whom she was half afraid to see! Her talk -and her manner suffered; she had become preoccupied, absent minded, -and silent.—It was a puzzle.—Meanwhile, her young friend was going -through a crisis of feeling, almost too terrible to support.</p> - -<p>For a whole fortnight, Nancy never caught sight of Mayne, and then she -encountered him riding in the park one morning early. He was with a -lady. They passed within a few yards of one another; but made no sign. -She had felt half inclined to bow, but her impulse had arrived too late.</p> - -<p>Mayne had waited in due form upon the Hicks, sent a handsome present to -the bride-elect, and invited Teddy to dine with him at his club; but -Teddy preferred a <i>tête-à-tête</i> luncheon—his evenings were sacred to -Jessie.</p> - -<p>"I'm awfully glad you were able to come," said Mayne, as he ushered his -friend into the stately dining-room of his club. "I couldn't get half a -word with you the other day, and I wanted to have a <i>bukh</i>."</p> - -<p>"Oh, it's all right,—Jessie let me off this morning; she is up to her -neck, shopping! You see, we are to be married in ten days, and want to -do our honeymoon at home, before I get back to the coffee. We intend to -live at Fairplains, which belongs to Nancy,—as you know."</p> - -<p>"Yes! Mrs. Hicks told me. I hadn't heard a word."</p> - -<p>"Well, how could you? when you never wrote to any of us. Nancy was a -jolly sight better, she used to send me screeds, when she lived with -her aunt, and did Companion, and Tweenie, and Scapegoat. However, -that's all over now; as she and Mrs. De Wolfe will live together: they -are going down to her country place, after July. I dined with them the -other night, and I have heard all their plans."</p> - -<p>"Mrs. De Wolfe lives in our part of the world; she and my uncle are -old friends, so Nancy and I, will find ourselves in the same boat, -meeting every day, sitting next to one another at dinner; in fact, I -see nothing for it, but to chuck the rest of my leave, and go back to -India."</p> - -<p>"Don't be a fool, Mayne! Why on earth should you do that?"</p> - -<p>"Knowing what you know,—need you ask? How can I go about, and -associate, with a girl——" He paused expressively.</p> - -<p>"You can make it up."</p> - -<p>"No! I did my best, and Nancy made a fool of me."</p> - -<p>"Yes, but the poor child was out of her mind with grief; the whole -tragedy got upon her nerves; to tell you the truth, she grew so -strange, that they thought she was really going off her chump, and -bundled her home,—where I believe some real hard knocks and shocks, -brought her to her senses. She has a face you can't forget; awfully -pretty, isn't she?"</p> - -<p>"She is," assented the other.</p> - -<p>"Look here, Mayne, if you will take <i>my</i> advice,—you will sit -tight—and brazen it out!"</p> - -<p>"But my dear fellow, how can I brazen out, what is a dead secret?"</p> - -<p>"Everyone will know some day,—and there will be a most tremendous -rumpus. Nancy is famous for her good looks, she has a whole string of -admirers,—Finchie's nephew is making great running, and——"</p> - -<p>"He may run till he is black in the face," interrupted Mayne, "he can't -marry her."</p> - -<p>"Aren't you rather a manger dog; you don't care about the girl -yourself,—some day she may lose her heart to a fellow, and <i>then</i> what -is to happen?"</p> - -<p>"I'm afraid, I have not been quite candid with you, Teddy old man! -although I have only seen this new Nancy twice; I find, that I <i>do</i> -care for her. In old days I admired her character, and liked her -as a pal, otherwise she only struck me as a sunburnt, talkative, -tomboy. Now, added to her good points, she has become beautiful, and -attractive; and if she hadn't a penny, I'd have come forward, have -asked you to be my ambassador, and endeavoured to make friends. On -these lines, I believe matters would have worked out all right, in -<i>time</i>. Travers liked me, and I'd score there; but to find that Nancy -is not only a beauty, but also a great heiress, is a bit too much to -face. I couldn't stand a wife with heaps of money, and mines! I'd be -buried in gold and grandeur, and lose my own identity—such as it -is! I only wish I saw a clear and honourable road, out of the whole -diabolical business!"</p> - -<p>"That is to say, if the mine were to burst up, and the coffee to go -smash. I suppose," added Dawson, after a moment's reflection, "there -was no flaw in that hurried-up ceremony?"</p> - -<p>"None! I made particular inquiries at the time. The parson had the -Bishop's licence all right; they sent an express, and routed his -lordship out of bed in the middle of the night. Without this licence, a -marriage is no more valid, as a binding ceremony,—than taking a woman -down to dinner."</p> - -<p>"So there's no loop-hole in <i>that</i> direction," said his companion. "If -Finchie were at home, I bet you anything you like, she'd clear a path -somehow. Shove you and your queer wedding into limbo, and marry Nancy -and her money, to her nephew, Tony Lamerton!"</p> - -<p>"Yes, perhaps she'd have a good try, but she couldn't bring it off all -the same."</p> - -<p>"You're coming to see me turned off on Wednesday week, eh,—you really -<i>must</i> support me, and Nancy is to be one of the bridesmaids."</p> - -<p>"Is she? well don't put me down for best man,—I'm not eligible, but -I'll afford you my presence, and moral support. Is it to be a big -affair?"</p> - -<p>"I'm afraid so! lots of Mrs. Hicks' old friends, every planter in -London, and most of our fellow passengers; we've had some thumping -presents. Nancy has given us a car, a piano, and a fine canteen. She -takes the deepest interest in our affairs, and is with Jessie to-day. -We are sending some new furniture out to Fairplains."</p> - -<p>"Well, I must confess, I rather liked the old sticks. There was one -lame chair in the verandah, the most comfortable I ever sat in,—just -took you nicely in the back, and didn't poke your head into your -chest."</p> - -<p>"It shall be preserved, and kept ready for <i>you</i> whenever you come for -a shoot."</p> - -<p>"I'll never shoot again at Fairplains,—or set foot on Nancy's estate."</p> - -<p>"What a stiff-necked beggar you are! and yet I think it is quite on the -cards,—that you may never return to India."</p> - -<p>"Yes, I see your meaning, why swither out there, when I have a rich -wife in England? As it happens, I bar a rich wife, and never intend to -claim her."</p> - -<p>"Supposing she were to take it into her head to claim <i>you</i>? What then?"</p> - -<p>Mayne stared at his guest for a moment, and then burst into a loud and -hearty laugh. "Sooner than that, from what I know of Nancy, she would -take a header off Waterloo Bridge."</p> - -<p>"Well," replied Teddy, looking at his watch, "I must be off. Jessie is -the soul of punctuality,—and I have to be, what the Americans call, -'on time.'"</p> - -<p>"I score over you in one way, Teddy," said his friend, "I was never on -duty; I had no long engagement,—at the outside, it wasn't more than -thirty-six hours!"</p> - -<hr class="chap" /> - -<h2>CHAPTER XXIX</h2> - -<h3>"THE SWORD OF DAMOCLES"</h3> - - -<p>During these sunny summer days, although Nancy looked remarkably gay -and pretty, and went what is called "everywhere," she was secretly -miserable,—but bravely concealed her sufferings and kept her anxieties -to herself. For more than two years, she had lived in a sort of fool's -paradise, or as if she had been in a dream. Now, she had been awakened -with a shock, and like a newly-aroused sleeper, began to look about -her, and realized a changed world. She had never supposed that Derek -Mayne would re-enter her life: he was in India,—that land of vague and -indefinite banishments,—and she was in England.</p> - -<p>How could they ever meet? Then she had his promise: his letter, -treasured in her jewel-case. Nevertheless, here he was in London, -actually within a few streets, and he had it in his power to ruin and -upset the whole of her life; he could if he chose. She recalled his -expression of cool scrutiny, and aloofness, as he looked at her across -the railway carriage: his glance was direct, dominating, and almost -stern.</p> - -<p>Although the future horizon was vague and misty, recently life had -gone smoothly for Nancy; she had been gliding along, as it were on -a wide placid river; now all at once she seemed to be approaching -unknown falls, and to hear the roar of the rapids! In her short life, -she had known days, and days of intense mental anguish,—the agony of -bereavement. This present pain was neither so sharp, or so poignant, -but of an unceasing aching, and gnawing description.</p> - -<p>She slept badly; she had little appetite for food, or amusement; each -succeeding day she expected the sword to fall! Every time she and her -chaperon re-entered their suite, her first impulse was to rush to the -table, where cards and letters awaited them, and these she turned over, -and examined with a throbbing heart. Would Derek Mayne call, and seek -an interview with Mrs. De Wolfe? Would he claim her? He might try,—but -she would resist,—or would he merely inform people that she was his -lawful wife, and leave her, so to speak, to face the music!</p> - -<p>By an amazing coincidence, two of the witnesses to her marriage were -in London: Teddy and Mrs. Hicks; and she lived in quaking fear that -<i>they</i> would open the subject! Much to her relief, it had never been -approached. At present, Teddy and his future mother-in-law were far too -much engrossed in their own more interesting affairs.</p> - -<p>Lady Belmont's long expected and belated ball, eventually took place at -the "Ritz"; and more than fulfilled the most exigeant anticipations. -Many of the best people, the pretty girls, and the smart young men -were present. Nancy and her chaperon,—who, surprising to relate, -delighted in a ball,—were early arrivals. Nancy loved dancing, danced -beautifully, and was much improved since Dudley Villars had been her -constant partner. She looked very lovely, and a little out of breath -as she came up to Mrs. De Wolfe at the end of a long waltz, and found -the old lady talking with unusual animation to some man,—who, when he -turned about, she saw to her consternation, was Captain Mayne!</p> - -<p>"Nancy," said her chaperon, "I want you to give a dance to an old -friend of mine; one of my boys, Captain Mayne!—Derek, this is my young -friend, Miss Travers."</p> - -<p>Captain Mayne bowed, and said, "Miss Travers and I have met before. -May I?" looking at her steadily, "have the honour of a waltz?"</p> - -<p>Nancy, who had paled rather suddenly, glanced down at her crammed -programme, and murmured, "Number twelve," and with a bow, he backed -away into the crowd.</p> - -<p>Nancy's card had been filled ever since she had appeared in the -ball-room; nevertheless, she mentally threw over Lord Lanark—whose -name was scribbled before number twelve waltz, "Destiny." She must -speak to Captain Mayne, and learn the worst! what he intended to do? or -not to do? and face this horrible ordeal.</p> - -<p>Waiting and uncertainty had become unbearable; and yet the dread of the -approaching interview, filled her with terror. For a moment she was -seized by an overwhelming reluctance. All the fears of the last weeks, -had now become real, and verified. She was fired by a wild desire, -to feign illness, and rush home; but soon overcame this preposterous -temptation. It was imperative to stand to her promise, and to listen to -what her partner had to say—nothing agreeable, that was certain—she -had glanced into his face, and there read an expression of cool and -absolute indifference.</p> - -<p>However, now they had been formally made known to one another, and -were liable to meet, she must learn the rules of the game in which -she was expected to take part! There it was, the first part of -"Destiny!" and here he came; edging his way towards her through the -crowd. She accepted his arm in dead silence, and in another moment -they were launched among the whirling throng. Mayne danced extremely -well,—steering his course with remarkable skill. (Nancy had noticed -him waltzing with Josie; their steps suited admirably; graceful, lissom -Josie, moving with a sort of foreign swing and abandon, murmuring into -his ear all the time they floated round,—unquestionably they were -<i>old</i> friends). He was not perhaps so accomplished a performer as Sir -Dudley, but he held his partner with greater respect, and did not use -an Oriental perfume on his sleek dark hair.</p> - -<p>They exchanged one or two formal remarks about the floor, and the band, -danced until the music ceased, and people began to pour out of the -ball-room; then Mayne led his companion to a secluded little settee, -and took a chair close by. Here was the supreme moment! He looked at -Nancy narrowly: how young, fresh, and slim,—and yet how woefully -white, and scared!—he could actually see a little pulse throbbing -in her throat, her hands were tightly locked in her lap. Yes! brutal -thought, he was getting a little of his own back! At last he said:</p> - -<p>"Well!"</p> - -<p>Nancy raised her frightened eyes, glanced at him quickly, and looked -down; and there ensued an expressive silence, more eloquent than words. -The pause was broken by Mayne, who quietly quoted:</p> - -<p>"Gentlemen of the French Guard,—fire first!"</p> - -<p>"I suppose you mean that <i>I</i> am to speak," said Nancy in a low voice.</p> - -<p>He nodded shortly.</p> - -<p>"But I don't know what to say."</p> - -<p>Nevertheless she realized that she was fencing with her future life.</p> - -<p>"Oh, of course I don't expect you to say you are <i>glad</i> to see me," and -he gave an abrupt laugh.</p> - -<p>Nancy made no reply,—but her lower lip quivered.</p> - -<p>"May I offer you my congratulations?" he continued. "I hear you are now -a great heiress; a goldmine! and Fairplains."</p> - -<p>"Fairplains, yes! Oh, if only Daddy had been alive!"</p> - -<p>"Yes, I know," he assented promptly, "please don't <i>spare</i> me! If I -hadn't missed the panther——"</p> - -<p>"I'm not quite so malicious as you imagine," she interrupted, "and you -need not be so bitter—for you know as well as I do, how Daddy adored -Fairplains."</p> - -<p>"Pray accept my apologies," he said coolly, "I was not aware that you -had modified your opinions. I wished to speak to you,—and here is my -golden opportunity! You see, by most shocking bad luck, we happen to -find ourselves in the same set! Your chaperon, Mrs. De Wolfe, belongs -to my part of the world; she knew me in pinafores, so I am afraid we -shall often knock up against one another."</p> - -<p>"I suppose so," asserted Nancy, without raising her eyes.</p> - -<p>"We may even find ourselves staying in the same house, and this would -be a bit awkward; for if we were dead cuts, it might excite remark! -However, this preposterous position, won't last long; I shall be -returning to India." He paused for a moment and then added, with a -smile, "Ah! I see you look relieved!"</p> - -<p>"Do I? I did not know,—I rather wish I was going back too!"</p> - -<p>"What, tired of the gay world already?"</p> - -<p>To this she made no answer.</p> - -<p>"Well, Nancy, you and I are in a queer fix, if ever there was one! God -knows I meant to do the square thing," he went on gravely, "but I made -a most awful hash of the whole business!"</p> - -<p>"I believe you <i>did</i> mean well," she murmured, speaking with evident -effort, "and I behaved—ungratefully; but I was crazy with grief. -Everything was so awfully sudden, and, and——" she hesitated.</p> - -<p>"And you couldn't bear the sight of me," he interjected, "and I -accepted the situation. You made everything fairly plain in your -letter,—didn't you?"—Another immense pause.</p> - -<p>Nancy wondered how long this hateful scene was to continue—it seemed -to have lasted for hours. Then in a meditative tone Mayne began:</p> - -<p>"Now I wonder, if I had followed you to your hiding-place, and dragged -you off to Cananore, how would that have answered?"</p> - -<p>"It would have made me hate, and abhor you, as long as I lived," she -rejoined with startling vehemence.</p> - -<p>"Oh! and do you hate, and abhor, me now?"</p> - -<p>She raised her eyes, and considered him gravely; but made no reply—she -did not wish to be his wife, but in her secret heart, she knew she -would be glad to be friends. Something in his voice, and his honest -eyes, recalled old days, and the many happy hours, they two had spent -together. Then he was so manly, and good-looking; also she began to -feel, that she was not really afraid of him.</p> - -<p>"What I wished to say to you," he continued, "is this: that, owing to -the pressure of circumstances, we must meet, and pretend to be friends."</p> - -<p>"Or be friends, and pretend?" she corrected timidly.</p> - -<p>"What an explosion, if the truth ever leaked out! Think of your friends -and relations; my friends and my regiment. However, you may rely upon -me to keep my promise,—and to hold my tongue." After a moment's -silence, he added: "How do you hit it off with Mrs. De Wolfe?"</p> - -<p>"Extremely well,—I am very fond of her."</p> - -<p>"Somehow I shouldn't have thought that she was your sort!—I've seen -you going about, with her godson, that fellow Villars."</p> - -<p>"Yes, he noticed you that day at Sandown, and he was speaking about -you," replied Nancy, who had somewhat recovered her colour, and her -courage.</p> - -<p>"That was kind of him,—I am flattered. What did he say, anything -libellous?"</p> - -<p>"Oh no indeed; he only told me, that your uncle, is very anxious for -you to marry."</p> - -<p>"Well that's a true bill,—he <i>is</i>!"</p> - -<p>"But <i>can</i> you?"</p> - -<p>"What a funny question. No, not unless I wish to be run in for -bigamy,—a Mrs. Mayne already exists."</p> - -<p>"You mean me?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, who else?" slowly turning his head to look at her. The question -was sarcastically enforced.</p> - -<p>After a short silence she murmured: "And is there <i>no</i> way out?"</p> - -<p>"I imagine there is; but you see, I've not had much to do with -matrimonial intricacies,—I believe, I could divorce you—for -desertion!"</p> - -<p>"Oh!" putting her hands up to cover her face, "and it would be in all -the papers!"</p> - -<p>"It would; and probably headed, 'Great military scandal,' and -illustrated with our portraits."</p> - -<p>"And what <i>would</i> Mrs. De Wolfe say?"</p> - -<p>"Mrs. De Wolfe can stand a good deal,—she's had some pretty bad -shocks in her time; and is a regular old brick; and you would achieve -notoriety!—Then on the other hand, <i>I</i> might give you reason to -divorce <i>me</i>," and he looked at Nancy with keen significance.</p> - -<p>Nancy blushed to the roots of her hair: her very ears were red.</p> - -<p>"But make your mind easy," he continued, "I am not going to wade -through mud,—even to break our chain."</p> - -<p>"And is there <i>no</i> way out of it?" she repeated with a sort of sob.</p> - -<p>"I'm afraid not. With every good intention, your father and I made -a serious mistake. It is not so easy, to order the lives of other -people,—each must go his own road. You have no wish to walk in mine; -or I in yours. I don't want you as a wife,—official or otherwise,—and -I have excellent reason to know, that you have no desire to play the -rôle of Mrs. Mayne."</p> - -<p>His tone and expression, made Nancy wince—and yet this announcement -was a profound relief. She glanced at him, as he sat in a favourite -attitude, nursing his foot,—a very neat foot, and well turned ankle, -in black silk hose.—She remembered how her father had chaffed him, and -he said, "When I was at school I hurt my foot rather badly at rugger, -and nursed it on my knee to keep it out of harm's way,—the trick has -grown on me, I do it unconsciously."</p> - -<p>"May I look at this?" he said, leaning forward and picking her -programme off her lap.</p> - -<p>"I'm not sure that it isn't one of my prerogatives. Hullo! so you threw -over Lanark, and gave <i>me</i> his dance; I hope he won't shoot me? eh! -Villars, Villars, Villars,—<i>toujours</i> Villars, <i>why</i> so much Villars?"</p> - -<p>"Oh, because I know him rather well."</p> - -<p>"I bet you <i>don't</i>."</p> - -<p>"I see you don't like him."</p> - -<p>"No: a fellow who can't play cricket, either physically or morally, who -can't box, or shoot; just a good-looking blighter, with a glib tongue, -and a face of brass."</p> - -<p>"At any rate, he is clever, and accomplished; he sings and plays the -violin, paints better than many professionals,—he dances like a dream."</p> - -<p>"So <i>you</i> seem to think!"</p> - -<p>"But <i>everyone</i> thinks it! I've been told, that girls have actually -wept, because he ignored them at a ball."</p> - -<p>"More fools they! shall <i>I</i> ever see the proud day, when a girl howls, -because I haven't asked her to dance? Look here, Nancy," and his voice -took a certain peremptoriness, "don't have anything to do with that -chap Villars,—he is <i>not</i> a safe acquaintance!"</p> - -<p>Nancy made no reply, and apparently assuming that silence gave consent, -he continued—"I see our old friend Cathcart here, no doubt repairing -his shattered nerves, after a spasm of work! He appears to be in great -force. You have not favoured him,—how is that?"</p> - -<p>"He didn't ask me for a dance."</p> - -<p>"What!" staring at her. "Oh, so you've had a row!"</p> - -<p>"Not exactly a row," and she hesitated.</p> - -<p>"Exactly what? come, own up, we are not likely to have another -interview, for some time."</p> - -<p>"Well then if you <i>must</i> know,—he asked me to marry him!"</p> - -<p>"To marry him!" echoed her companion, now no longer nursing his foot, -and sitting erect.</p> - -<p>"And was very angry indeed, when I said no, in fact he has cut me dead -ever since."</p> - -<p>For some time Mayne was silent, at last he said:</p> - -<p>"Asked you to marry him; by Jove, that was too funny! I think I must -propose to some girl,—so as to make us quits; though it might be -rather awkward, if she happened to say 'yes'! However, of course I -could easily jilt her!" Then in quite another tone, "No doubt you -encouraged his hopes?"</p> - -<p>"I did nothing of the kind," she answered hotly, "I've always disliked -him."</p> - -<p>"Ah! Well on one point we agree; I don't love him either. There's your -programme; I wonder if you are aware, that we have sat out two whole -dances? Time has flown,—hasn't it? Look here, one word before we part. -We are bound to meet at home,—I mean in Moonshire. Mrs. De Wolfe and -my uncle are tremendous chums, old lovers and that sort of thing, and I -daresay she will wonder, that since we knew one another in India,—why -you have kept me so <i>dark</i>? You must play up! You'd better say,—we had -a quarrel."</p> - -<p>"Very well," assented the girl.</p> - -<p>"And don't let her run away with the idea,—that it was a <i>lovers'</i> -quarrel," he added, rising as he spoke.</p> - -<p>To this, Nancy made no reply, and they returned to the ball-room in -absolute silence. The moment she appeared, she was instantly claimed -by Sir Dudley Villars, who upbraided her with having "cut his dance." -Meanwhile Mayne walked off in search of his own partner.</p> - -<p>How pretty Nancy was; indeed lovely! How her colour went and came, and -how her little under lip, had trembled. Perhaps he had been a bit rough -on her! The old outspoken, spirited, Nancy he remembered, was gone! At -first, she had seemed as frightened as a newly caught bird. But, after -all, why should he not bully her a little? considering that he was -her lawful lord, and master; and that his share, so far, had been the -kicks,—whilst she, had collared all the half-pence!</p> - -<hr class="chap" /> - -<h2>CHAPTER XXX</h2> - -<h3>CRITICAL MOMENTS FOR NANCY</h3> - - -<p>Captain Mayne's remark with regard to no further interview, proved -correct; he and Nancy merely encountered one another as very slight -acquaintances, who have friends in common. She noticed him riding -in the Park with Josie,—they never joined her, but merely cantered -by with a cheery salute. At a polo match at Ranelagh, where Mayne -had played and distinguished himself, she looked on, whilst friends -gathered round to congratulate him, and she saw Josie go up and pat the -damp neck of his considerably blown pony. That same day, at the polo -match, his mother, Lady Torquilstone, was pointed out to her by Mrs. De -Wolfe; a tall, supremely well dressed, well preserved, arrogant woman, -who looked as if the whole of Ranelagh was her private property, and -most of the crowd, insufferable intruders.</p> - -<p>"So that was her mother-in-law!" said Nancy to herself. Her -mother-in-law's husband, was a dapper, prancing sort of little man, -with fierce eyebrows, and a hard stare.</p> - -<p>As Mrs. De Wolfe and her companion were motoring back to town, they -passed Captain Mayne, who waved to them from the coach.</p> - -<p>"It's most extraordinary," said the old lady, "that since he has come -home, I've seen so little of Derek. Long ago when with his uncle, he -was in and out of my place like a dog in a fair! Now he has merely left -a formal card, and although I have twice asked him to dinner, he has -been engaged. <i>My</i> conscience is clear, I have not offended him in any -way, and I can't bear to be dropped by my young friends, to say nothing -of old ones. By the way, Nancy," glancing at her companion, "perhaps -you are the guilty party. Did he by any chance make love to you?"</p> - -<p>"Oh, no; no indeed," replied Nancy, with reassuring emphasis.</p> - -<p>"Well of course in those days, you must have been a little girl in -short skirts, with your hair down your back, and I'm quite sure that -Derek Mayne would never look at a flapper."</p> - -<p>Although Nancy and Captain Mayne maintained a cautious distance, -they were brought in spite of themselves into close contact at the -Hicks—Dawson, wedding. The ceremony was a grand affair; everything was -done in a lavish, if somewhat showy way. Nancy was not a bridesmaid, -for Mrs. Hicks had intervened, and helped her out, with a series of the -most extraordinary excuses,—these being accepted by Jessie, with a -somewhat indifferent grace.</p> - -<p>The church, which was rather small, was handsomely decorated, and -crammed to the doors. With respect to the guests, Mrs. Hicks had -figuratively "gone forth to the highways and hedges, and compelled them -to come in." Old planter friends; recent fellow-passengers, and even -the inmates of her "family hotel." Mrs. De Wolfe and Nancy were among -early arrivals at the church, and the latter drew many admiring eyes; -her gown and hat were white; she looked bridal herself! white suited -her wonderful complexion, and reddish-brown hair. Almost at the last -moment, and when the bridesmaids were actually assembled in the porch, -Captain Mayne,—very smart in frock-coat, and lavender gloves,—came -strolling up the aisle, glancing from side to side, in search of an -empty space! Mrs. De Wolfe's quick eye caught his. She made a little -signal, he crushed into her pew, and took a seat between Nancy, and the -door.</p> - -<p>The organ pealed, the choir leading the procession, advanced slowly up -the aisle. Jessie, carrying herself with dignified self-possession, -looked unusually well,—indeed quite at her best. Not so, the waiting -bridegroom; for if his new coat was creaseless, his countenance was -painfully distorted. He appeared to be pitiably nervous, and was -struggling with a (happily groundless) fear, that he had lost the -ring! Jessie was staunchly supported by her mother, rustling in a -brilliant blue costume,—destined to open the eyes of the Meaches, and -other neighbours. Meanwhile Nancy, whose attention had been riveted -on Jessie, became suddenly alive to the appalling consciousness, that -the last time she listened to these prayers, and adjurations, they had -been addressed to herself,—and the man who stood beside her! She felt -overwhelmed by the shock of this poignant memory; how mean and cruel of -fate to drag them together in such a heartless fashion; each sentence -now felt like a separate stab.</p> - -<p>At Fairplains, the service had fallen on more or less deaf ears; here, -she was acutely alive to every syllable. Did her companion remember? -She stole a swift glance at Mayne; he was looking straight before him, -and his profile was absolutely impassive. Such were the close quarters -in the pew, that their elbows were almost touching: could he feel how -she was trembling? When it came to the words, "<i>forsaking all other, -keeping only to him, as long as ye both shall live</i>," Nancy, in spite -of a determined effort at self-control, felt herself shaking from head -to foot. The position was to the last degree embarrassing, and painful; -compelled to listen to the celebration of Holy Matrimony, side by side -with the man to whom she had been married,—and from whom she had run -away! was an ordeal almost too terrible to be endured. Her face seemed -to be on fire, her lips were twitching convulsively, as she kept her -head down, and supported herself by the front of the pew.</p> - -<p>Oh! what a relief, when they knelt, and she could more or less hide -herself; but she was so unstrung and agitated that she let fall her -prayer-book and her bag! Mayne picked them both up, and as he gravely -restored them, he glanced at her heightened colour, and averted eyes. -It seemed positively cruel to scrutinize her,—his bride of two and a -half years! for in spite of his apparent composure he had not failed to -realize the extraordinary situation, and Nancy's miserable confusion.</p> - -<p>Strange to say, Mrs. De Wolfe was totally unaware of the little drama -beside her; her attention had been closely engaged in viewing with -much amusement the extraordinary collection of people that Mrs. Hicks' -cards of invitation had assembled.—The end of the service found Nancy -calmer; bodily release was at hand; but her mind had been grasped by -a penetrating thought. She had made a vow more than two years ago; -a vow to this man beside her, a vow she had deliberately broken. -Would God punish her? It was the first time she had been invaded by -this idea.—She glanced instinctively at her companion. Apparently -he had not given the situation a moment's thought; and was carefully -extracting from its haven of refuge, a beautiful, glossy new hat. And -now the bride and bridegroom came pacing down the aisle, and Teddy, who -had completely recovered his poise, halted as he passed, and said "You -two," glancing from Mayne to Nancy, "must come out, and sign."</p> - -<p>There was nothing else for it! Mayne at once stepped forth, Nancy -followed him, and they fell into line behind the bridesmaids, and not a -few who saw them, thought, "What a strikingly good-looking couple!"</p> - -<p>They entirely eclipsed the real pair. Such a crowd in the vestry, such -kissing and chattering!—Mrs. Hicks' voice, high above every other, -Jessie radiant, with veil thrown back, kissed Nancy,—and Mayne kissed -<i>her</i>!</p> - -<p>When it was his turn to sign the register, he wrote, "Derek D. Mayne, -Captain," then passed the pen to Nancy. For a moment she hesitated; -she felt his eyes fixed upon her, and with a sudden and inexplicable -impulse, and a very shaky hand, she scrawled, "Nancy Mayne": it was -almost illegible; an inkstained spider could have done as well, if not -better. She happened to be the last to sign, and no one looked over the -register, except Mrs. Hicks,—who saw to everything;—little escaped -that sharp-eyed matron, who instantly recognizing this unexpected -signature, glanced quickly from the page to Mayne, and gave him a bold, -and unmistakable wink.</p> - -<p>The reception, which took place at a neighbouring hotel, was very -crowded, very noisy, and very lively,—precisely what was to be -expected from anything in which Mrs. Hicks had a hand! The presents -on show, were well worthy of exhibition,—the refreshments were -first-rate, the band not too blatant, and the champagne unexceptional. -It was agreed by their many friends, that the Hicks' had spared no -expense, and given the marriage "Tasmasha" in great style.</p> - -<p>The crowd, crush, heat, and striving to be gay, natural, and like -herself, left Nancy to return to her temporary home, figuratively in -the condition of some half-dead, battered flower!</p> - -<p>The memory of the ceremony, held her in a vice-like grip; as for -signing the register,—<i>what</i> had possessed her? Was it a compelling -look in Mayne's eyes, or was it a spasmodic effort of conscience? In -the crush, at the reception, although she did not actually come across -Mayne, she had seen him more than once. He had assisted to tie a shoe -at the back of the motor which was to bear the happy couple away, and -was active and prominent among the mob that threw rice. There had been -neither slipper, nor rice, at <i>their</i> wedding!</p> - -<p>Soon after this eventful occasion, one morning in the Row, Mrs. Speyde -rode up to Nancy, and said to her escort, "Do you go away, Tony,—I -want to have a talk with Nancy."</p> - -<p>"No fear!" was the brotherly reply.</p> - -<p>"But you really <i>must</i>," she persisted. "I particularly want to tell -Nancy a secret,—though Mrs. De Wolfe says she can't keep one,—and -that her face always gives her away."</p> - -<p>"One of your good stories, I suppose; well, <i>I</i> may as well hear it -too!"</p> - -<p>"No, no," protested Nancy, with a nervous laugh, "I never listen to -Josie's stories,—one, was more than enough!"</p> - -<p>Mrs. Speyde knew from long experience, that her brother could be -stubborn when it suited him, so she said, "Well, don't ask me to oblige -you, dear Tony, next time you are in a hole, or otherwise." Then -turning to Nancy, "I'll come in early this evening and talk, whilst you -are dressing," and with a nod, she wheeled her horse about, and rode -away.</p> - -<p>At half-past seven, as Nancy, seated before her glass, was taking down -her masses of hair, there was a sharp knock at the door, which the maid -opened, and Mrs. Speyde sailed in. A shimmering cloak covered her smart -French gown, and a diamond bandeau sparkled in her black hair. As she -advanced, she discarded the mantle, and displayed a smart, and very -<i>décolleté</i> red gown.</p> - -<p>"I've got 'em all on to-night!" she announced. Then, as the maid -disappeared, she sat down, crossed her knees, and took out a cigarette. -"A cigarette makes me talk," she added. "This is a Doucet frock, Nancy, -what do you think of it? My maid says the body has no back!"</p> - -<p>"Nor much front either," said Nancy, as she inspected her friend; -"indeed I call it an <i>a</i>ffront," and she laughed.</p> - -<p>"How dare you?"</p> - -<p>"Oh, I'm so thin, it's all right! Now on you,—it might be——" and she -hesitated.</p> - -<p>"Impossible!" declared Nancy.</p> - -<p>"Dear, beautiful young creature, what a lovely neck! However, I -didn't dress an hour earlier, and rush over here, to discuss necks, -and bodies; I've come to break it to you gently, that I'm thinking of -settling down at last."</p> - -<p>"You mean getting married?"</p> - -<p>"Yes. Giving up little suppers in Soho, racing, and gambling,—and -turning over a new leaf."</p> - -<p>"And who is to be the happiest of men?"</p> - -<p>"I should think you might easily guess."</p> - -<p>"Not so easily,—you have such crowds of men friends. Is it Colonel -Deloraine?"</p> - -<p>"Is it my grandfather!" she scoffed. "No! a thousand times no! Well, -I won't keep you on tenterhooks,—it's Derek Mayne! You know him." A -slight pause, and a quick glance. "I say! Nancy, why do you look so -funny, and surprised?—I'm not poaching on <i>your</i> preserves, I know!"</p> - -<p>"I'm not looking funny or surprised," she managed to protest, and Josie -was too much wrapped up in her subject, too anxious to talk, to notice -that she was more or less confused.</p> - -<p>"He is such a dear fellow, straight as a die! one of the living best; -not very emotional, you know,—keeps his feelings to himself, hates -spooning, and all that sort of thing! Remember long ago, when I kissed -him under the mistletoe,—he didn't like it a little bit!"</p> - -<p>"Did he not?" said Nancy, who was carefully collecting hairpins. "I'm -rather surprised at that."</p> - -<p>"I'm dining and doing a theatre with him to-night.—I expect he has -got another man and girl,—he is so frightfully proper. Well, my dear, -the whole thing will suit me down to the ground; I shall love to go -to India, just to see the Land of Regrets, and later on, we'll settle -ourselves comfortably in our own county."</p> - -<p>"Yes, er ... er ... will you?"</p> - -<p>"Why of course,—at Maynesfort—our ancestral home. What fun I shall -have turning out the garrets! I believe they are full of lovely old -things, hustled away by the late Mrs. Mayne, who was a Victorian lady, -and loved crewel-work antimacassars, chromo-lithographs; bead mats, and -wax flowers!"</p> - -<p>"Is anything settled?" inquired Nancy, with her eyes fixed upon her -hairpins.</p> - -<p>"Not yet, the fact is there is a little bit of a hitch,—and I believe -you are just the one person who can help me,—and that's why I'm here! -Oh yes, my dear, although you look so calmly indifferent, and can only -throw me a casual yes or no; you knew Derek in India! Tell me honestly, -Nancy,—did you ever hear a story about him and a <i>girl</i>? No, don't -get so red, I'm not going to tell you one of <i>mine</i>, I want to know -one of <i>his</i>! The uncle seems to have an idea, that Derek got himself -into a mess—a nasty scrape—with some woman in India,—black, for -choice,—but I'm sure that wouldn't be Derek's form. The old man is -anxious; he has talked to me,—I may tell you that he adores me, for -I amuse him and flirt with him.—Derek was out there for four years, -and I need not assure you, one can manage to get through a good deal of -mischief, in <i>that</i> time.—I've done my level best to pump Derek, but -it was no go; I had better luck with one of his pals, Major Sanders, -who is in the same regiment.—I screwed it out of <i>him</i>, that he -believes there <i>is</i> something,—although he cannot name the lady. For -the last couple of years, Derek has been short of money; he doesn't -join in things as he used to do, and he sold two ripping polo ponies. -Major Sanders thinks there may be some horrible creature, who claws -half his income, as blackmail!"</p> - -<p>Nancy, who had been brushing her hair, now swept a quantity over her -face, which was burning. <i>She</i> was the horrible creature who twice a -year, received, but rejected, the half of Captain Mayne's income.</p> - -<p>"Tell me, Nance, did <i>you</i> ever hear anything?—what was he like, in -those days?"</p> - -<p>"Much the same as now," she murmured, through her veil of shining locks.</p> - -<p>"More cheery and go-ahead?"</p> - -<p>"Oh yes,—I think perhaps he was."</p> - -<p>"I feel I knew Derek, and I'm certain, there's something on his -mind,—some <i>secret</i>; but whatever it is, cart-horses would not drag -it from him! He knows Aunt Julia, of course. If only she were at home, -she would throw a search-light on the mystery. I never met such a woman -for getting to the bottom of a business; but she won't be back till -September! Tell me, Nancy, did Derek Mayne know any girls, when you met -him?"</p> - -<p>"Oh yes; he knew three or four planters' daughters."</p> - -<p>"Did he flirt with them?"</p> - -<p>"No, never, that I saw: he only cared for sport, and tennis."</p> - -<p>"Well, I have reason to know that Derek likes <i>me</i>; we've been pals -since we were children, and if only this little mystery was cleared up, -I'd be perfectly happy! After all, there may be nothing in it,—what do -you say?"</p> - -<p>Nancy threw back her flowing hair, and looked up at Josie, who had -risen, and was standing beside her,—one hand on her slim hip—the -other fingering a cigarette. "I say ..." she paused ... and then, -taking her courage in both hands, "I say, that from what I know of -Captain Mayne,—I don't think he will ever marry!"</p> - -<p>"What preposterous nonsense!" exclaimed her visitor. "I know it's -not envy on your part, my child, for you don't like one another,—as -anyone can see with half an eye. He will marry: in fact he must -marry, and soon. His uncle is getting rampageous, and declares, that -if Derek hangs back,—he will take a wife himself. Derek and I, will -get on splendidly together," announced Josie, now walking about the -room, "he is so steady, and I'm just exactly the opposite!—I won't -be sorry to have a home of my own,—for I'm dead tired of my present -existence; a sort of life, the American summed up as, 'One damned thing -after another!'—Ah, here comes your maid with your frock; oh, my -dear, what a dream!—so I'll clear out and leave you, to put on your -rouge.—Joking apart, darling, you do look white; you've not been up to -the mark just lately, I expect you want a tonic."</p> - -<p>"Oh no," said Nancy, rising. "Of course going about from morning till -night, and dancing from night till morning, <i>is</i> rather fagging, but -I'm all right."</p> - -<p>"Well, my sweet lamb, all <i>I</i> can say is, that you <i>look</i> all wrong; -however, I suppose you know best. Mind you keep my little secret."</p> - -<p>She halted on her way to the door, and looked back with eyes of -expressive significance, then, satisfied with a nod, she swept out.</p> - -<hr class="chap" /> - -<h2>CHAPTER XXXI</h2> - -<h3>NEWENHAM COURT</h3> - - -<p>Newenham was a real eighteenth-century village, chiefly composed of -red brick flat-faced houses,—some shyly withdrawn from the road, -behind prim little gardens, others standing boldly upon the street. -There was a dumpy, contented-looking old church, an ivy-clad parsonage, -and an ancient inn, formerly a noted posting-house; now resuscitated, -after nearly a century of neglect, as a halting-place and garage. The -Court was situated in a land of heavy trees, green slopes and great -peace; its back entrance opened directly into the village, but from an -opposite direction a long and imposing avenue, with gates guarded by a -pair of fierce stone wolves, wound up to the hall door.</p> - -<p>The Court was a mixture of the Georgian and Victorian period, without -any claim to architectural beauty; but it had the dignity of mellow -age, and solid prosperity. The entrance faced north, and looked upon -wide grass slopes, crowned by heavy plantations. In the interior was a -vast hall, popular as a lounge and general sitting-room. Here people -sat, read, had tea, played Bridge and had liberty to smoke. A spacious -drawing-room, library, dining and billiard-rooms opened to right and -left.</p> - -<p>Almost every window in the Court commanded a view, and most of the -sitting-rooms had French windows opening to the ground. Upstairs -the passages were narrow, and rambling, with very low ceilings, and -unexpected steps,—but the adjoining bedrooms dwelt long in the -affectionate memory of many guests. These were furnished to suit -the period, with large four-posters, and small looking-glasses, but -were supplied with modern mattresses, comfortable armchairs, and -the latest thing in Jacobean chintz! Here were writing-tables, well -supplied,—including stamps,—fresh flowers, the newest books, and in -season, the most cheerful fires.</p> - -<p>Mrs. De Wolfe escorted her young friend all over the premises; she -saw not only the kitchen, the still-room, the Justice's room, but the -two apartments once occupied by the old lady's sons,—and now closed. -Their mother displayed their books, and toys, of childhood,—as well -as the trophies, and treasures of later years. The south side of the -Court, overlooked a well-timbered park, and winding river; immediately -in front, lay smooth green lawns, bounded right and left, by long -herbaceous borders, and rose-covered pergolas. Somehow this unusual -display gave the impression that an army corps of flowers, had escaped -from the grim walled garden,—which lay half concealed beyond the -shrubberies—and encamped in the grounds; immediately below the lawns -were tennis courts; these were pointed out to Nancy by her hostess, as -one of the chief features of the place.</p> - -<p>"It is not for its gardens,—which as you see, are quite -unique,—having boldly come out of bounds, and run into the park,—nor -yet, for some very remarkable old furniture, nor even for its good -dinners, that the Court is celebrated," said its mistress. "It is -famed, for having the best tennis courts on this side of the county! -My two boys were wonderful players,—Hughie was a champion, and in -their day, the great tennis week took place <i>here</i>. There was always -an immense gathering, we provided lunch and refreshments in big -tents,—and the house was packed to the garret! When I am at home, I -still endeavour to keep up Newenham Tennis week. I needn't tell you, -that I never played tennis myself,—<i>my</i> game was croquet, in the good -old days when croquet hoops were a generous size; but I still like to -keep the tennis going,—indeed I don't suppose my neighbours would -allow me to drop it; they consider it hard case, that it is not an -annual fixture; but when I <i>am</i> here, I do my best to hold the meeting -in all its glory. It is true, that, as it has been hinted to me, 'I now -do very little for the county in the way of entertaining,' so I feel -bound to put my best foot forward, once in a way. I fill the house with -tennis-playing neighbours, I invite the residents for miles, I engage a -band that I board in the village,—two extra cooks, tents, waiters, and -supply all the delicacies of the season, and I offer, last not least, -prizes that are worth while. There is tennis, more or less all day, the -young people dance in the racquet court at night, others play Bridge, -or billiards; oh, what a week it is! You will see, that I shall not -be at home, more than a few days,—before letters come pouring in, to -inquire the date of the Newenham Tennis Tournament?"</p> - -<p>"It must be an immense undertaking for you," said Nancy, "but -personally I think it will be great fun! I will help you, write out the -invitations, and do the flowers, and any odd jobs you can find for me."</p> - -<p>"Thank you, my dear, I'm sure you will be useful, but I generally get a -man, to arrange dates, events, handicaps and so on, and more or less to -run the show. I give him <i>carte blanche</i>; you shall be deputy hostess, -and I will sit in my arm-chair,—and take all the credit! Four years -ago, Derek Mayne was my helper,—I don't know who I shall have this -time; perhaps Dudley Villars? he is not much of a tennis player, nor -what I call practical, but he knows how to lay out money, and to make -things go smoothly."</p> - -<p>"And when do you think, you will have this tournament?"</p> - -<p>"In about a fortnight,—or three weeks. First of all, I must go round, -and look up my friends; and as soon as I have put the house in order, -and reported myself to my people in the village, and had the Rectory -people up to dinner, you and I will sally forth, and pay a round of -calls."</p> - -<p>Nancy had been given a delightful bedroom; it faced due south, her -windows commanded the park, the shining river, a far-away distant -blur of hills, immediately below lay the velvet lawns, and wide -grassy walks, under rose-shaded pergolas. The whole place, seemed to -be enveloped in an atmosphere of peace and good-will. "Only for one -thing," she said to herself, "how very <i>very</i> happy I should be here!"</p> - -<p>The afternoon when Nancy and her friend set forth in a new motor to pay -a round of visits, the old lady said, "My first, must be to Richard -Mayne; my old friend met with an accident a couple of months ago, -and has been laid up ever since. I believe he is a shocking patient, -impossible to keep indoors."</p> - -<p>As they sped noiselessly along, she continued to talk about him. "He -has been a widower for fifteen years,—his wife was always a delicate -creature. She had a good deal of money,—which as they have no family, -goes back to her relations. The Maynes,—the real name was Delamaine, -but a Puritan ancestor chopped it up—the Maynes, have always been -spendthrifts, and compelled to marry money! The property, has dwindled -down to about a thousand acres, thanks to Mayne's ancestors' rage for -gambling. It is said, that when they could find no other method, they -used to race <i>worms</i> upon a deal table! The table is still exhibited at -Maynesfort, and I have an idea, that the old gentleman is quite proud -of it. If it were my property,—it would have been burnt long ago."</p> - -<p>Maynesfort was ten miles from Newenham,—a distance soon covered by -Mrs. De Wolfe's new "Rolls-Royce." As they turned into the gates, she -said to Nancy, "You see it is a fine old place, and well kept up. It's -a sort of estate, which having a great deal of wood, and vast gardens, -and no fat farms, more or less eats its head off! Derek Mayne is bound -to marry money, and I must say this,—that whoever he does marry, will -be a lucky girl!"</p> - -<p>Old Mr. Mayne, supported by a nurse, received the two ladies in the -library: he was able to rise and hobble towards them, leaning upon a -stick,—and offered his friend a most affectionate welcome.</p> - -<p>"Well Elizabeth!" he said, "I'm delighted to see you, it's a good sight -for old eyes," shaking her by the hand. "This time, I hope, you have -come home to stay."</p> - -<p>"Oh, I make no rash promises," she answered with a laugh. "Now, -Richard, please sit down—and don't do company manners for us. This is -my young friend, Miss Travers," she added, presenting Nancy.</p> - -<p>"Oh yes, Miss Travers,—I have heard of you before. Was it not to you, -that my old friend Fletcher left his property?"</p> - -<p>"Yes," she answered, "a most unexpected legacy."</p> - -<p>"Your father was his manager, I understand?"</p> - -<p>"He was, but Fairplains originally belonged to him."</p> - -<p>"Oh!" exclaimed the old gentleman with a look of blank surprise.</p> - -<p>"And I'm afraid, he lost it through <i>me</i>."</p> - -<p>"My dear young lady, surely you are not serious!"</p> - -<p>"Yes, as I was delicate, I had to be sent to England, when I was a -small child, and he was constantly coming over to see me, leaving a -manager to look after the estate, the manager robbed him, and ran away -with the money, leaving no end of debts, and difficulties for father."</p> - -<p>"Well, I am glad it has gone back to <i>you</i>," said Mr. Mayne politely. -"By the way, you knew my nephew Derek, I believe he stayed at -Fairplains?"</p> - -<p>"Yes,—for a short time."</p> - -<p>"A nice fellow, isn't he, and a capital <i>shot</i>?"</p> - -<p>Nancy hesitated for a moment, and then replied: "I—suppose he is."</p> - -<p>"Ah! I see he is not your sort.—He never was much of a ladies' man, -was he?" looking over at Mrs. De Wolfe, who had been conferring with -the old gentleman's nurse. "I expect, we shall have him down in a week -or two for the cricket and tennis."</p> - -<p>Old Mr. Mayne then proceeded to talk about himself,—he gave full -particulars of his accident, how the horse, had slipped up and rolled -upon him, and then galloped home: the terrible consternation there had -been when Rufus had appeared in the stable yard—without his master; -next he discussed his doctor, the London specialist, and finally -dropped into the local gossip.</p> - -<p>During the latter part of this séance, Nancy had been sent out in -charge of the nurse, to see the picture gallery and the gardens, and -she received an impression of age, refinement, and large outlay. -Certainly Maynesfort was a beautiful old place, and she did not wonder -that its present owner was so pathetically anxious, that it should -remain in the family,—and never endure the degradation of being let!</p> - -<p>This visit to old Mr. Mayne proved to be the first of a long series. -The Hillsides were at home, also the Millers, in fact most of Mrs. -De Wolfe's friends, had shifted their quarters from London or Cowes, -into the nice cool green country. No, not cool, for the weather in -August proved to be unusually warm, the grass was burnt to a yellow -brown; Mrs. De Wolfe's gardeners were kept incessantly occupied with -hose, and water can: at times, there was scarcely a breath of air, and -the great trees stood solid in the heat haze. After sundown, Nancy -would run out to the garden, and gather fruit for dessert—apricots in -mellow perfection, off the hot brick wall; she would also go round, and -inspect the village cattle trough, and see that their own dogs, had -water in their bowls, and cheer up Bob, a gasping brown spaniel.</p> - -<p>In a month's time, she had contrived to make herself thoroughly at -home amid her new surroundings, had been presented to the village, and -parsonage, and made friends with most of the old women, and children in -Newenham, also with the village dogs,—and indeed the post-office dog, -a mongrel, like Togo, exhibited an ardent desire to attach himself to -the "new young lady," as she was generally called. As August advanced, -Mr. Mayne, attended by nurse, and valet, was convalescing at the -seaside, his nephew was shooting in Scotland, but the remainder of the -neighbours were at home, making the most of the very shining hours, at -picnics, cricket matches, and little impromptu dances. The Hillsides -were particularly gay, and entertained a large house party.</p> - -<p>Although a certain amount of state was maintained, such as big stepping -horses, and powdered men-servants, the <i>ménage</i> at the castle, was -never taken very seriously; her ladyship was frequently in trouble with -servants; household matters rarely ran smoothly, meals were unpunctual -and indifferent,—it was a young people's house; and the friends of -Josie and Tony, as long as they could have freedom, and dancing, and -smoking and jokes, were not super-critical.</p> - -<p>It was whispered that Lady Hillside was so intensely engrossed in works -of philanthropy, that she sometimes forgot she had invited guests, and -when they were ushered in by a bewildered butler, she would blandly -inquire "where they were staying?" or she would order a dinner for -twenty-four, and find that she had a party of eight, and when the party -were seated, what frightful gaps at the table!</p> - -<p>What was even more serious, she would invite two dozen of her confiding -neighbours, and order the cook-housekeeper to provide for six. Then -what awful waits ensued, whilst the distracted staff in the kitchen, -scrambled together an impromptu meal, and the men-servants elongated -the dinner table. Such an erratic mistress, drove her retinue almost -crazy. Good and efficient servants took their departure, with the -result, that elderly guests who visited the castle,—rarely repeated -the experiment.</p> - -<p>The last week of August, was fixed upon for the tennis tournament, and -for a long time previously, Mrs. De Wolfe and Nancy had been engaged in -making preparations. There would be a number of guests staying in the -house. Talking over the list, Mrs. De Wolfe announced:</p> - -<p>"I shall get Dudley to do master of the ceremonies, and ask Roger De -Wolfe,—he is my heir, such a dear good stupid fellow,—to help to -manage the scoring, handicapping, and judging.</p> - -<p>"There will be Tony and Josie, two Miller girls, Major Horne and his -mother, young Wynne of the Blues, Cobden Gray, our great tennis player, -Miss Strong the lady champion, old Sir Hubert Hamilton, to sit about -and walk with <i>me</i>, and of course Derek Mayne,—he must be back from -Scotland by this time."</p> - -<p>"But why do you ask him to stay in the house?" inquired Nancy.</p> - -<p>"Because it will save his going backwards and forwards to Maynesfort -twice a day. The old man is very stingy of petrol; everyone has -their pet economy: his is petrol,—and mine is string. I'm fond of -Derek,—though he has given me the cold shoulder,—still I intend to -have him here. Of course, I know <i>you</i> do not like him, but as a Roland -for my Oliver, I shall invite one of your friends,—what do you say to -Mrs. Hicks?"</p> - -<p>"Mrs. Hicks?"</p> - -<p>"Yes! why not? I fancy she is at a loose end just now. She told me she -had never stayed much in the country,—at least it will be a novelty."</p> - -<p>"And so will <i>she</i>! It is very good of you to think of her, and I'm -sure she would love to come; the neighbours may think her a bit odd, -and loud,—and I shall take it upon myself to tone down some of her -costumes; but she has the best heart in the world: I shall never forget -her kindness to me,—when my father was dying; and in one way, she will -find herself in her element here, she is a wonderfully strong tennis -player."</p> - -<p>"You don't mean to tell me, that she <i>plays</i>?"</p> - -<p>"I should rather think she did!—and I venture to say, will carry off -one of your beautiful and valuable trophies. Where shall we put her?"</p> - -<p>"In the blue bedroom next to you, so that you can talk old times to -your hearts' content. Shall I write, or will you?"</p> - -<p>"Oh, I think the invitation should go from the lady of the house."</p> - -<p>"Very well, my dear, I will ask her to come a couple of days before the -crowd, and I'll send off a note by this very post."</p> - -<hr class="tb" /> - -<p>A letter from Mrs. Hicks, Newenham Court, Moonshire, to B. Hicks, Esq., -M.D., Panora, near Khotagheri, Nilgiris, India:</p> - -<div class="blockquot"> - -<p><span class="smcap">My dear Hubby</span>,</p> - -<p>Won't you open your eyes to see where <i>I</i> am? I arrived a week ago, to -stay with Nancy's friend, Mrs. De Wolfe, and am now living among the -very highest company, and on the fat of the land! This is a lovely old -place, something like what you read of in novels—with a great park, -and lots of stiff-looking servants, and palms in the sitting rooms, -and wonderful table silver. Here up in my room, every time I come -into it, I find a fresh can of hot water standing in the basin—but -I believe there are six housemaids—and such scented soap, and bath -salts, and a big four-post bed, as soft as whipped cream. A great -tennis tournament is being held all this week; so far I have done -pretty well, in the 'ladies' doubles,' and this house is as full as if -it were a fashionable hotel. Most of the people are strangers to me, -except as tennis and Bridge partners, Finchie's niece and nephew are -here, the Hon. Mrs. Speyde,—a black-eyed, flighty-looking widow,—and -the Honourable Tony Lamerton, her brother: not a bad sort, and a good -tennis player, but with a laugh to split your head! There is Major -Horne, I came home with him on board ship last time but one,—terribly -sea-sick he was too! and of all people in the world, who do you think, -but <i>Captain Mayne</i>! His uncle lives in these parts.</p> - -<p>Isn't it strange that he and Nancy should be staying in the same -house, and talking politely to one another, as if they were bare -acquaintances that had only lately met, for the first time? I suppose -they have to pretend, as they are keeping their past very <i>dark</i>; and -I believe they are both as obstinate as a pair of commissariat mules. -I noticed that he sat next her at dinner last night, and they scarcely -spoke, and they have played in the same sets at tennis. I also notice -that he plays as a 'bachelor' against the married men. All the time, -I'm the only one here, or in England, who happens to know, that he -and Nancy are married; and when he addresses her as 'Miss Travers,' -it's all I can do to hold my tongue. At tennis, I think they sometimes -forget their feud, for I have heard him shout, 'Yours, Nancy,' and I -have seen the two of them laughing together,—but elsewhere, as far as -their manners to one another are concerned, they might have come out -of a refrigerator!</p> - -<p>I must say, it's an awful pity that such a handsome young couple -cannot make it up. I think Nancy should come forward,—being the one -in the wrong. She is a real darling, and such a beauty that you'd -never know her, and so nice and affectionate to a dowdy old girl like -<i>me</i>. I wish she and Mayne would make it up. I'd try my hand, only you -say I always make a botch of such affairs, blurt out secrets, and give -the show away. Well, well! perhaps something may happen to put things -right.</p> - -<p>Old Mrs. De Wolfe is wrapped up in Nancy, she might be her own -granddaughter; the girl goes about the place, as if she had lived here -for years; she is well liked too,—indeed <i>too</i> much liked by some! -There's a dark foreign fellow, who is always trying to be her shadow, -and who dances with her of an evening, but as far as I can see, I -don't think Mayne minds—he has his own fish to fry!</p> - -<p>By the time this is in your hands, Jess and Teddy will have arrived, -and given you my news, and your new socks, and jerseys. I'm sending -you some postcards of this place; but they give a very poor idea of -its style. Many a time, I shall dream of it, I know, when I am back -with you in old Panora. You and I fancy our roses; well, you should -see those <i>here</i>; the Pergolas just smothered in them, and the rosery -a sight for angels; as for the apricots on the south wall, my mouth -waters, when I think of them!</p> - -<p>Mrs. De Wolfe herself, in spite of all her engagements, has been -mighty kind and friendly to me, and made me feel quite at <i>home</i>. -When you look at the postcard of this place, and think of me, you -will laugh at the idea. I play Bridge with her; my word! she is first -class. Sees mistakes—but never scolds—not like <i>you</i>! Once she -took me round the big garden all by myself. At the time, I felt it a -tremendous honour, but on second thoughts, I believe she wanted to -get something out of me about Nancy. She did her big best to pump me -about Mayne,—and the reason of their coolness, but for once I was on -my guard, and left her just as wise as ever! I'm afraid I told one or -two small lies, but that under the circumstances, couldn't be helped. -I'd give fifty rupees, cash down, to see her face, when she hears the -<i>truth</i>. I'll write from London by next mail.</p> - -<p class="ph1">Your affectionate wife,<br /> -<span class="smcap">Susan Hicks</span>.</p></div> - -<hr class="chap" /> - -<h2>CHAPTER XXXII</h2> - -<h3>MRS. HICKS IMPARTS A SECRET</h3> - - -<p>The letter from Mrs. Hicks to her "hubby" gave a fairly good sketch of -events at the Court. There had been tennis, boating, Bridge, dancing, a -certain amount of strolling about the lawns and turf walks, and sitting -in rustic arbours, with congenial companions. Mrs. Hicks had played -well, and vigorously in the married ladies against single, and it -seemed to Mayne like good old days, when she served her cleverly placed -balls, and shouted her triumphs.</p> - -<p>On her arrival at the Court, Nancy, her neighbour, had taken her -under her wing, inspected her wardrobe, subdued its too vivid colours -with lace and chiffon, altered the style of her friend's hats with -her own clever fingers, and made useful suggestions with regard to -coiffure. Also, she gave her the names and characteristics of expected -guests, and did her utmost to make her comfortable, and put her at -her ease,—and Mrs. Hicks was not ungrateful. As she stood patiently, -whilst the girl pinned and arranged a fichu upon her portly form, she -said, "I declare to you, Nancy, you've done more to fix me up, and show -me the ropes in two days, than my own girls in two years. Of course -they are busy with their love affairs,—and you have none,—and it's -your own fault. There isn't a young man I know, that can hold a candle -to Mayne, as to looks and manners. He took the shine out of them all, -at Jessie's wedding. <i>Why</i> can't you make it up?"</p> - -<p>"It takes two to do that," said Nancy, as she took a pin out of her -mouth.</p> - -<p>"Ah, I suppose the letter you sent him choked him off? It's funny you -and he being in the same set, and him coming to stay in this very -house."</p> - -<p>"Yes: too funny to be pleasant."</p> - -<p>"Lots of girls like him; I saw that at Jessie's wedding, and when I -was down at Burlingham,—and there's one lady, unless I am greatly -mistaken, likes him uncommon,—that Mrs. Speyde, a niece of Finchie's. -She is always running after him, I am told. Maybe they'll run away -together, some day! Why, Nancy child, I declare you look quite vexed! -You're not jealous, are you?"</p> - -<p>"Of course not,"—now giving the fichu a twitch,—"what a ridiculous -idea."</p> - -<p>"Well, if he would only throw a book at you, before a witness,—and -then run away with someone, it would make matters so nice and simple."</p> - -<p>"Simple, yes, but not exactly nice."—After a moment's hesitation, and -a fresh pin, "I always thought you liked him, Mrs. Hicks."</p> - -<p>"So I do, but it's you, I'm <i>really</i> fond of; it's for <i>your</i> good I'm -thinking. Don't I remember you a little darling in your nurse's arms? -as for him, I only knew him for a matter of a few weeks. If you would -put your pride in your pocket, all might yet be well: that is to say, -<i>if</i> you liked him. Do you Nancy? Come now, own up?"</p> - -<p>Nancy made no reply for some moments; at last she said, "I like him -better than I did; there, now your fichu is all right, and looks very -nice; you must wear it this evening,—but mind you don't put it on -wrong side out! Now I must run and dress," and imprinting a kiss on -Mrs. Hicks' hard and healthy cheek, she hurried out of the room.</p> - -<p>A few days later, Nancy had reason to repeat Mrs. Hicks' question, -was she jealous? Strange to say, the idea did not now appear to be -so supremely ridiculous. Within the last week, she'd been a little -startled at the discovery of emotions, the existence of which took her -by surprise! She found, that it gave her a painful sensation to see -Josie and Captain Mayne, on such excellent and intimate terms. They -sat and talked, motored, and danced together—almost as if they were -an engaged couple. She endeavoured to console herself with the fact, -that it was Josie who was playing the part of enchantress: she had a -wonderful power of appropriating the interest of a man.</p> - -<p>It was a by no means unusual sight, to behold the fascinating Mrs. -Speyde, encompassed by a little crowd of admirers;—whilst other and -far prettier women were overlooked, and neglected. Of late she had an -instinct that relations between herself and Josie were changed; and -that Josie no longer liked her. More than once, she had caught her -black eyes fixed upon her with a steady and vindictive glare; in her -remarks there was a belittling and malicious note—and she had felt -herself laughed at, and so to speak "baited," for the entertainment -of the company,—yes, no later than that very day at breakfast! Josie -was a splendid mimic, and if her manner was rather boisterous, no one -could tell a story with more vivacity and point. Her usual plan was -to relate the joint adventure of herself, and victim,—describing it -with grotesque exaggeration, and gesture, and making her unfortunate -butt, look contemptibly foolish, and ridiculous. Expostulation was -useless,—after all, the story was <i>not</i> told behind the subject's -back, but boldly face to face, with audacious effrontery, and Nancy's -feeble explanations, were drowned in shouts of laughter. The merest -incident was sufficient excuse, on which to hang a tale, and Josie's -victims never had the wit or spirits, to carry the war into the enemy's -quarter,—and the tyrant scored.</p> - -<p>Although Captain Mayne and Nancy saw but little of one another indoors, -they had been drawn to play together in the "Ladies' and gentlemen's -doubles." This had excited the jealousy of Mrs. Speyde, and although -she intrigued and manœuvred, nothing she did or said, could alter the -detestable fact. Nancy knew by instinct, that her late friend hated to -see her and Captain Mayne together,—even if it were only for a few -minutes; when they barely exchanged a word!</p> - -<p>The weather was perfect, though still rather warm; and the scene in -the grounds and around the tennis courts, had been described in the -local paper, as "brilliant." No such successful tournament had taken -place for years; the sun had shone, and the world and his wife had -flocked to Newenham from far and near, and there been entertained, with -first-class tennis, excellent refreshments, and any amount of grapeseed!</p> - -<p>It had been a particularly strenuous day for Nancy, who had not only -played in two hard fought competitions, but in acting deputy hostess, -among the very mixed multitude in the tents; seeing that ices and -cup were unfailing, and in distributing little civilities among the -crowd,—with Sir Dudley as her attendant. When the last game had been -contested, and the last straggling group had dispersed, she strolled -towards the river, accompanied by Mrs. Hicks, who pounced upon her -bodily, and said, "Come you here, you little Nancy girl! I never get -a word with you these times," taking her arm, and with a significant -glance at Sir Dudley, she added, "turn about is fair play; he has had -more than his share," she continued, as he moved off.</p> - -<p>"My goodness! how the time flies, I've been here five days, and they -have gone like greased lightning. Let us go and sit on the bench by the -boat-house, and see if there is a bit of air from the river!"</p> - -<p>"You played in your very best form to-day," said Nancy. "Your service -was splendid; I felt immensely proud of you."</p> - -<p>"Thank you, my dear, the same to you!" she rejoined, seating herself -with a sigh of satisfaction. "Who's them two over in the boat? I'm -getting a bit short-sighted?"</p> - -<p>"Mrs. Speyde, and Captain Mayne."</p> - -<p>"They don't seem to be rowing?"</p> - -<p>"No, just drifting,—and talking."</p> - -<p>"Drifting! so they are,—well! well! well! Look here, Nancy girl, I've -got something to say to you. There's no one in the boat-house, is -there?" peering round.</p> - -<p>"No one,—and is it really such a secret?" and she laughed.</p> - -<p>"You shall judge for yourself! The last three days I have kept my eyes -open."</p> - -<p>"Are they <i>ever</i> shut?"</p> - -<p>"Now don't interrupt me, with your stupid jokes," protested her -companion, with a touch of impatience. "I've seen, that you and him, -for all your stand-off airs,—like one another right well."</p> - -<p>"What makes you think so?"</p> - -<p>"The use of my senses. I've noticed you smiling and jabbering together -just like old times,—although you were only talking tennis; and I -believe you're a bit jealous,—always a <i>very</i> healthy sign. Now, my -dear child, take an old friend's advice, and don't make <i>the</i> mistake -of your life! Good fortune, and a providential chance, have brought you -and Mayne here together. Are you going to let him drift away?"</p> - -<p>"But why do you talk as if <i>I</i> were the one to act and come forward?"</p> - -<p>"Because you are! Now listen to me," seizing her hand in a firm grip, -"it is for you to make the advance; you gave him the go-by; it was -certainly an amazing act for a girl of your age. Now I think you have -come to your senses; but he is frightened of your money. Yes!" she -continued with emphasis, "he as good as told Teddy, and I dug it out of -<i>him</i>,—that had you not been an <i>heiress</i>, he would have been willing -to make it up!"</p> - -<p>"He said that,—did he?" said Nancy with a quick catch in her breath.</p> - -<p>"So Teddy informed me, and I have always found him to speak the -truth. He told me, as a dead, dead, secret,—and mind you let it go -no further, for if Teddy knew, he'd <i>eat</i> me,—although I <i>am</i> his -mother-in-law! Seeing how things are, and being really fond of you, -Nancy, I thought I'd not allow love to pass out of your life, without -doing my best to interfere, and stop it."</p> - -<p>Nancy's colour was high, her heart beat unusually fast; here, indeed, -was a wonderful piece of information. So it was not altogether her -unpardonable flight,—but the money, that stood between them. She sat -for a long time in dead silence, with her eyes fixed upon the river. At -last she murmured, "I don't see how I could possibly do it."</p> - -<p>"You'll find it easy enough, once you and he are face to face; you -will never have a chance <i>here</i>; never a moment together, unless when -playing tennis: that gay lady in the boat, now lighting her cigarette -on his, takes right good care of that!"</p> - -<p>"But I thought you were so near-sighted?" said Nancy, with a faint -smile.</p> - -<p>"Only when it's convenient: and I thought perhaps you might not notice -the pair. Well, here is that long-legged young Tony and Miss Miller, -coming to fetch you," said Mrs. Hicks, rising as she spoke. "Think over -what I have told you, my dear child, and don't let matters slide! I'll -just go in, and get a bit of a rest before dinner,—my poor old joints, -ay, but they do ache!"</p> - -<hr class="chap" /> - -<h2>CHAPTER XXXIII</h2> - -<h3>AN INTERRUPTED INTERVIEW</h3> - - -<p>The last set had been played, tennis prizes been distributed amid much -clapping and applause, performers and spectators had dispersed, the -great tennis week was over!</p> - -<p>Nancy, who felt mentally and bodily fatigued, contrived to escape -from her friends, to enjoy a short rest, and breathing time, before -the evening gaieties set in; and by devious and cunning short cuts, -made her way to a favourite seat, at the end of the least frequented -Pergola. Here for once, she found herself out of the public eye,—the -only eyes that rested upon her, were those of her companion, Bob, the -brown spaniel,—nephew to the dogs at Maynesfort. Bob detested tennis, -and had followed his mistress under the fond delusion that she was -about to take him for a nice run by the river; alas! no, she threw -herself down on a hard rustic bench, and heaved a long sigh. Poor -disappointed Bob was in complete sympathy with this frame of mind, and -inclined to sigh too.</p> - -<p>All day long, Nancy had borne the fierce light, that beats on a pretty -popular girl,—the most prominent figure in a society gathering; -as deputy hostess, tennis competitor, adviser, referee, arbitress -in little half-playful disputes, with an eye to the guests in the -refreshment tents, and in perpetual demand, here, there, and everywhere.</p> - -<p>Mrs. De Wolfe had abdicated and taken her ease, and an attitude of -serene detachment, seated among her contemporaries, and intimates; -all little anxieties and worries, were handed over to her vice-reine, -and although she had the gift of social grace, youth, and energy, -Nancy found the sceptre as heavy as lead! Here was Mrs. Harper looking -alarmingly red and explosive, because no one had escorted her to tea, -and there was Lizzie Stevens on the verge of tears, because the umpire -had given her two faults; Mrs. Fitzhammond had lost a dear old silver -brooch, she had had since she was a school-girl, and was unpleasantly -querulous, injured, and fussy; whilst Sutton the butler had informed -poor Nancy in a hollow whisper, that "the ice was running out!"</p> - -<p>Well, it was all over at last! and had been a surprising success; -but the deputy hostess felt completely exhausted, as she took off -her hat, and closed her eyes. The previous night, she had lain awake -for many hours, meditating on Mrs. Hicks' unexpected revelation. It -seemed to her, that she was approaching a crisis in her life: looking -into her own heart, she saw Derek Mayne; yes, Derek, and no one else. -Far removed from the tragedy of former associations, in another -hemisphere, and among other surroundings, she realized his personal -attraction, his upright character, unfailing good humour,—and for a -man,—surprising unselfishness!</p> - -<p>She had noticed his thoughtful attention to his uncle; his pleasant -ways to children, and to nobodies,—it was he, who had relieved her of -Mrs. Harper, and carried off that swelling matron, to enjoy ices, and -conversation (whilst Dudley Villars lay prone on the grass, at the feet -of the county's duchess, entertaining her with scraps of highly-spiced -scandal!). She recalled to mind, what a favourite he had been with her -father; how he had given her to him when on his deathbed; later how -fiercely she had thrust him aside, and fled. Yes! there was no doubt, -that <i>she</i> was the offender; and it was for her, to venture the first -advance—an advance bristling with difficulties and dangers. If she -made an overture and was repulsed—how—how, could she ever hold up her -head again? on the other hand, if she made no sign, and he went away, -it would be something whispered,—for—<i>ever</i>.</p> - -<p>During the last few days she and Derek had been on easier terms; -naturally the tournament had thrown them together; more than once, he -had addressed her as "Nancy," and more than once, she had surprised -him surveying her with an expression of keen attention, and something -else—"What?" What it was she could not analyse; interest, yes, perhaps -interest; at any rate, the glance was neither cynical nor scornful! -Possibly it might mean, that he wished to speak to her, that—oh no, -never by word or look, had he intimated that he looked for any change -in their relations; if she was to say, or do anything that would count; -if she was to venture to break the ice, and her heart quailed at the -mere idea of such an undertaking,—it must be <i>soon</i>. On Saturday, -he was leaving the Court, and from what she could gather, shortly -returning to India; so it was a case of now, or never! How could she -begin?—she had not the gracious art of approaching the unapproachable. -As she sat meditating, and by no means fancy free, the thumping of -Bob's tail announced his welcome to someone; and opening her eyes, she -beheld the subject of her thoughts, rapidly approaching along the turf -walk. Was she asleep? or was his appearance the result of some strange -telepathy?</p> - -<p>How good-looking he was! a lover to gladden the eyes of any girl. His -flannels set off an admirable well-knit figure—the touch of scarlet in -his blazer, was eminently becoming to his dark hair and eyes; in one -hand he swung a bat, and was apparently pressed for time.</p> - -<p>"Well, what is it?" he inquired, as he came within earshot.</p> - -<p>"I'm sure I don't know!" she answered, now sitting erect.</p> - -<p>"But Mrs. Hicks told me to hurry here at once—she said you wished to -speak to me."</p> - -<p>"She must have been dreaming!"</p> - -<p>"On the contrary, she looked particularly wide awake, and would take no -refusal,—we are just getting up a match." Nevertheless, he lingered.</p> - -<p>"I should have thought you'd had enough of tennis for to-day," remarked -Nancy.</p> - -<p>"Yes, I daresay. You are in great form, you and I, are the proud -winners of the ladies' and gentlemen's doubles. I say——" he paused -abruptly.</p> - -<p>"What do you say?" she asked.</p> - -<p>"Well,—it's about that fellow Villars;—you will remember, I begged -you to drop him; and I find him here installed as Tame cat: in fact a -sort of Puss in Boots,—running the whole show!"</p> - -<p>"That's true," admitted Nancy, "but Sir Dudley was <i>l'ami de la maison</i> -long before Mrs. De Wolfe knew me,—and surely you can scarcely expect -her to turn out her old friends on <i>my</i> account,—besides, he is her -godson."</p> - -<p>"So you think that sanctifies him?" shifting his bat under his arm.</p> - -<p>"No, certainly not; but I do honestly believe, you are prejudiced and -that Sir Dudley is not any worse than his neighbours; he is religious -in his way too, always down to family prayers,—of course, attendance -is optional,—whilst <i>you</i> appear with the hot dishes! He reads the -Scriptures beautifully,—I've never heard the twelfth chapter of -Ecclesiastes read with such expression."</p> - -<p>"If you would only take my word for it, the Song of Solomon is a -thousand times more in his line—all about my beloved, and roses, and -lilies."</p> - -<p>"Do you know, that he has a <i>wife</i>?" said Nancy expressively.</p> - -<p>"No, has he? Unhappy woman! but I <i>do</i> happen to know, that he has run -away with another man's wife! Certainly, it was years ago,—if he made -any scandal with mine"—he paused and looked full into her eyes, "by -Jove I would kill him,—and I should <i>like</i> to kill him!"</p> - -<p>Nancy burst into a peal of laughter. "How melodramatic you are! and how -you do abhor him!"</p> - -<p>"May I ask, if he is aware, that you have a husband?" Although his -manner chaffed her—his voice had a ring of earnestness.</p> - -<p>"What an absurd question; of course not! There isn't a soul in this -country, who's in the secret—except Mrs. Hicks."</p> - -<p>"I say," he exclaimed, "we are a fine couple of impostors! You may be -amused to hear, that my uncle has taken an immense fancy to you."</p> - -<p>"How nice of him."</p> - -<p>"And between ourselves, he thinks you would be an ideal niece-in-law. -The Maynes are poor, the place swallows up money, and the reigning -proprietor is obliged to get hold of a consort with coin."</p> - -<p>A thought instantly darted into Nancy's mind; here was her opportunity! -and as if in obedience to some irresistible force, she rose, with a -hammering heart,—looking, did she but know it, enchantingly pretty.—A -little pale perhaps, but stirred by some inward emotion, her lovely -face was unusually expressive. One or two rose leaves had fallen on her -uncovered hair, and the light between the branches overhead, sent the -shadows of leaves, to dance gaily upon her white skirt.</p> - -<p>"A wife with coin," repeated Nancy, speaking with a desperate effort, -and fixing her eyes upon the ground, "well! you did that yourself."</p> - -<p>"Quite unintentionally, I assure you," was the emphatic reply; "the -girl I married, was as poor as a church mouse! Nothing would tempt <i>me</i> -to marry for money."</p> - -<p>"I suppose," began Nancy—and she hesitated.</p> - -<p>"You suppose what?" he asked sharply.</p> - -<p>"That if ... if ..." she stammered—for the tone of his voice had been -discouraging, and made her, if possible—more nervous. "If you could -forgive me,—do you think.... Oh, how <i>can</i> I put it?..." and her voice -shook, "that <i>I</i> could tempt you? Oh no, I don't mean <i>that</i>,—only I -don't want all that money; no one knows better than you do, that I -never was accustomed to riches, and—and I should be only too thankful, -to give it to you."</p> - -<p>Mayne stared at her amazed! She was no longer pale.</p> - -<p>"Nancy!" he exclaimed, "I remember how in old days you talked the -wildest nonsense, I don't suppose for a moment, that you know or mean, -one single word of what you are saying."</p> - -<p>"Yes, I do," she rejoined tremulously, "but I can promise you -this,"—her lips quivered—and she added with difficulty, "I will never -say it again," she paused, struggling between pride, and emotion.</p> - -<p>"Oh, my dear Nancy, if I could only believe you—don't you know——"</p> - -<p>"So here you are, Derek!" exclaimed a high, authoritative treble, -and through a breach in the Pergola, Mrs. Speyde appeared, waving an -imperative tennis bat. "Have you forgotten, that we are <i>all</i> waiting -to make up a match?" She glanced sharply from him to Nancy. His face -wore a strained expression, as for the girl, she was the colour of a -crimson rambler!</p> - -<p>"Ah," with a little malicious laugh, "I see you have been talking -<i>secrets</i>. Yes, Miss Nancy, I always suspected that you knew a good -deal more about this gentleman than you pretended. Well, for the -present, you must leave the cat <i>in</i> the bag. Derek," laying an -arresting hand on his arm, "you've <i>got</i> to come!"</p> - -<p>Mayne drew back, but before anything further happened, Nancy had picked -up her hat, and vanished through an opening that led into the old -walled garden.</p> - -<p>That same evening, Nancy selected her most becoming frock, and took -particular pains with her hair—for she entertained high hopes, that -Mayne would seek her out, and endeavour to resume the conversation so -cruelly interrupted by Josie Speyde. At dinner, she saw nothing of -him,—as he happened to be on the same side of the table; later, as he -held the door for the ladies to pass forth, it seemed to her, that he -gave her a glance of particular significance; but strange to say, he -did not come into the drawing-room with the other men.</p> - -<p>About an hour later, when she was singing a duet with Sir Dudley, she -noticed him standing near the door. It struck her, that he looked pale -and rather stern,—as if he had been annoyed, or disappointed; he made -no effort whatever to speak to her for the remainder of the evening; -and she retired for the night, with an acute sense of hopelessness, and -depression.</p> - -<hr class="chap" /> - -<h2>CHAPTER XXXIV</h2> - -<h3>STRANDED!</h3> - - -<p>The following morning the guests who still remained at the Court, made -up a party to attend a race meeting at Knapshot. Knapshot was thirty -miles away, and could be reached by rail,—as the Court was but a short -distance from a mean, and undeserving little station. However, most of -the party decided to go by motor; Mrs. De Wolfe, Mrs. Horne, Sir Dudley -and Nancy in the comfortable roomy Daimler, with Roger De Wolfe sitting -by the chauffeur, Major Horne, Billy Miller, Josie and Captain Mayne, -followed in the new Rolls-Royce. Several preferred to travel by rail, -and Mrs. Hicks remained at home, to rest her weary bones, and repose -upon her well-earned laurels.</p> - -<p>The races, though not particularly notable, offered good sport; the -lunch was excellent, the ladies had their fortunes told, and did a -little betting. Mrs. De Wolfe and Mrs. Horne elected to return by train -early in the afternoon, as there was a dinner-party at the Court that -night—the last function of the week, moreover, the old ladies found -motoring rather hot, and dusty; and escorted by Roger, left the rest of -the party to follow, enjoining on all, that on no account were they to -be late.</p> - -<p>"We will go back just as we came!" said Josie, "we played games all the -way, and don't want to break up our happy little set!"</p> - -<p>This arrangement left Sir Dudley and Nancy to share the Daimler -<i>tête-à-tête</i>, and she offered a seat to Billy, who, however -(naturally), preferred to travel in company with Major Horne!</p> - -<p>"We will take different roads," declared Josie, who seemed to have -assumed command of the whole party, "and race, and see which car gets -home first? The Charlton road is the shortest: but it's out of repair, -the other by Langford is a couple of miles longer—but good going all -the way. Shall we toss, Dudley?—come, be sporting, and have something -on!"</p> - -<p>They tossed accordingly, Mrs. Speyde won the long route—and booked a -bet of five pounds.</p> - -<p>With a good deal of laughing, and joking, the competitors started -together, but within a quarter of a mile, the cars had separated, the -Rolls-Royce to take a high road, more or less bordering the railway, -the Daimler to plunge into what seemed to be the very heart and soul of -the country. It was a light and lovely September evening, and they sped -along with noiseless ease,—considering the ruts.</p> - -<p>"This is a ripping good car!" remarked Sir Dudley, "and Josie's five -pounds is already in my pocket,—I suppose your chauffeur knows the -way?"</p> - -<p>"Oh yes," replied Nancy, "Saxton belongs to this part of the country, -he has been with Mrs. De Wolfe for years."</p> - -<p>The couple discussed the races, the fortune-teller, and other matters, -but neither appeared to be in a talkative mood. It was delightful -flying along these quiet, grass-bordered roads, and lanes, breathing -the soft delicious air, watching the homing birds, and the solemn rise -of a splendid harvest moon. Suddenly Sir Dudley said:</p> - -<p>"I thought Mayne's leave was up, and that he was sick of this country, -but I heard him tell a fellow at the races, that he was going to apply -for an extension."</p> - -<p>"Is he?" murmured Nancy, and a bright colour invaded her face. "Was -this the outcome of their interrupted interview?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, and the sooner he goes the better! Josie Speyde is carrying on -one of her most outrageous flirtations. Lord! what a number of them -I've seen! If I didn't know her so well, I would swear that this time, -she was in earnest. There was Chapman, Fotheringay, Montague——"</p> - -<p>"Oh! Sir Dudley, it really isn't fair, to tell tales of your own -cousin."</p> - -<p>"Josie wouldn't mind, on the contrary, she's proud of her scalps. She's -a queer woman, in her way—a freak! Here we are, on a by-road I see. -I suppose it's all right?" then as the car slowed down, and drew up -beside a picturesque old cottage, he added, "but what is he stopping -for?"</p> - -<p>"I expect to get water for the car," replied Nancy. "What a dear -place"—looking in through the open door—"there's such a darling oak -chest in the passage!"</p> - -<p>"Yes, I know your craze,—and I think I see some china on a dresser -further on! Do you wish to go in?"</p> - -<p>"Only just for a second,—it looks the sort of cottage where one -can pick up the most priceless treasures!" Before she finished the -sentence, Nancy was already in the passage. A stout, grey-haired woman -with a bulky figure and a pleasant face, appeared, wiping her hands.</p> - -<p>"I wanted to look at your beautiful old chest," explained the visitor. -"I caught sight of it through the open door."</p> - -<p>"You are very welcome, miss," she answered, "and there's a still -better one in the kitchen—if you care to see that? We have a good -few old things—that came down from Bode's grandmother—Bode was my -husband—he's dead, poor man—this ten year."</p> - -<p>Nancy followed the woman down a long flagged passage, and found herself -in a heavily-beamed, low room,—with a vast fireplace. Here she -discovered a fine oak settle, a dresser and a chest,—with the date, -sixteen hundred and seventy. Nancy was in raptures, and fell in love -with an old blue bowl, that she saw on the dresser. She admired it with -such heartfelt enthusiasm, that the woman,—honestly displaying various -cracks,—declared that "it had been her grandfather's, but now leaked. -If the young lady fancied it—she could have it for a shilling."</p> - -<p>But Nancy protested, and said, "I wouldn't dream of imposing on your -generosity"—she did not like to use the word "ignorance," and added, -"I will gladly give you a sovereign for it"—and produced her purse. -The bargain being concluded to their mutual satisfaction, and Sir -Dudley having approved of the family chest, and bench, they took leave -of the hostess, and returned to the entrance, but here, to their utter -and speechless amazement, there was no motor to be seen!</p> - -<p>"Where is he?" cried Nancy, looking up and down the road. "Has he taken -the car into the yard?"</p> - -<p>No, neither car, nor chauffeur were about the premises—they had -mysteriously disappeared,—as if dissolved into thin air. Whilst Nancy -and her companion stood bewildered, and exclaiming, a youth on a shaggy -colt trotted up.</p> - -<p>"Dan, did you see a motor?" demanded his mother.</p> - -<p>"I did, it passed me just now—going at a great rate."</p> - -<p>"What is to be done?" said Nancy, turning to Sir Dudley in despair.</p> - -<p>"I understand what's happened; the fellow didn't notice us getting -out, he was round in the yard at the time, and, thinking we were still -in the car, he has driven off, and left us! Is there any station near -this?" turning to the woman.</p> - -<p>"Yes, about two miles off, but there's few trains. This is a terrible -awkward place to get away from—being a bit out of the way."</p> - -<p>"I suppose you have a post-office within reach?" inquired Nancy.</p> - -<p>"Yes, in Lofty village,—a mile off."</p> - -<p>"Then let us send a wire for the car to return; Auntie Wolfe will be -most awfully fussed, if we are not back in time for dinner."</p> - -<p>"You can take a telegram, my lad?" said Villars, appealing to the young -man.</p> - -<p>"Oh yes, sir, for sure," he answered eagerly.</p> - -<p>"Then I've got a pencil, and," to Mrs. Bode, "if you'll let me have a -bit of paper, I'll just go inside and write it." He retired indoors, -and Nancy talked to the colt and Dan, and after a few minutes, Dudley -reappeared, and handed a message to the youth, along with a half-crown.</p> - -<p>"I'll give you something for yourself, when you come back; be as quick -as ever you can. It's half-past seven now," he added, looking at his -watch, and then glancing at Nancy, he nodded his head, and said, "There -will be no dinner party for you, and me."</p> - -<p>"Oh, if they deliver the message at the Court at once, say in half an -hour, the car should be here by nine. We will dash home, and appear in -time for dessert."</p> - -<p>"'I doubt it, said the carpenter, and shed a bitter tear,'" quoted -Villars. "Perhaps Mrs. Bode can find us something to eat?" he added.</p> - -<p>"I am sorry I haven't got no butcher's meat in the house, sir, but -there's fresh eggs, and cold bacon,—and good home-made bread."</p> - -<p>"There are worse things!" said Villars, "but I'm not hungry, I was -thinking of the young lady."</p> - -<p>"A cup of tea, and a slice of home-made bread, is what I should like, -if Mrs. Bode will be so kind,—and I shall make the most of my time, in -poking about among her nice old things, and there is my nice blue bowl, -which I intend to carry home, as a souvenir of this funny adventure. -Will you come and help me to ransack the cottage?" said Nancy. "I know -you have a <i>flair</i> for old oak, and pewter too."</p> - -<p>"No," replied Villars, "I'll let you have it all your own way for once; -and leave you to gather up the spoil. I'll just stroll down the road -for half an hour,—and smoke a cigarette."</p> - -<hr class="chap" /> - -<h2>CHAPTER XXXV</h2> - -<h3>"EMPTY!"</h3> - - -<p>Meanwhile the merry quartette in the Rolls-Royce had reached their -destination rather late, but before she rushed off to dress, Mrs. -Speyde eagerly inquired if Miss Travers, and Sir Dudley had arrived?</p> - -<p>"No, ma'am, not yet," replied Sutton, the butler.</p> - -<p>"Hooray!" she cried, turning to Mayne, "I win five pounds, and I'll -gamble it away to-night, on weak, no trumpers."</p> - -<p>There happened to be a considerable gathering at the Court that -evening. Besides the guests in the house, not a few neighbours were -present; and the beautiful old mahogany table loaded with fine silver, -and softly shaded candelabra, surrounded by smart and well-favoured -young people, looked very gay indeed. The racing party, who had -scrambled into their clothes, gradually dropped in between soup, and -the second entrée, and heartlessly announced that "the others had -evidently lost their way!" It certainly looked like it, for as time -advanced, no one appeared to fill the two vacant places;—and vacant -places, make a gap, and spoil the symmetry of a dinner table, much as a -missing front tooth, mars a pretty face!</p> - -<p>"They certainly ought to be here by <i>this</i> time," remarked Mrs. De -Wolfe, consulting her wristlet watch, "it's just half-past nine."</p> - -<p>"Perhaps the car has broken down?" suggested Major Horne, "and they are -walking home!"</p> - -<p>"A fairly long walk," said Billy Miller, "and a hatefully lonely road."</p> - -<p>"Oh! Dudley won't mind <i>that</i>," said Josie, in an intimate aside.</p> - -<p>It had been a lively and festive meal, the guests were all in high good -humour. Dessert had been disposed of, and the ladies were awaiting -Mrs. De Wolfe's "eye," when Sutton, the butler, entered with unusual -solemnity, and bending his head, made some grave announcement in the -immediate vicinity of her left ear.</p> - -<p>"Nonsense!" she exclaimed in a startled tone, "nonsense!"</p> - -<p>"What is it?" demanded Mayne, and his voice sounded masterful, and -imperious.</p> - -<p>"Sutton tells me, that the car has come back, and that it is -<i>empty</i>!"—Meanwhile Sutton stood by, with a face as expressionless as -a dinner plate!</p> - -<p>"Empty!" echoed Mrs. Horne; "what does he mean?—where are Nancy, and -Sir Dudley?"</p> - -<p>Sutton cleared his voice twice, and with an overwhelming importance -suitable to the occasion, said: "When the footman ran down to open the -door just now, there was no one inside the car—nothing but the dust -knee cover, and Miss Travers' feather boa."</p> - -<p>After a deadly silence, Mrs. De Wolfe pulled herself together, rose and -said, as she looked round, "Of course we shall find some ridiculous -explanation; meanwhile, let us adjourn,—I will interview Saxton -myself."</p> - -<p>Whilst the ladies in the drawing-room were whispering, and wondering, -and the men in the dining-room were "lighting up" and passing round the -port, Mrs. De Wolfe entered the library, there to await her chauffeur. -She was accompanied by Roger, and was not a little astonished, when -Captain Mayne joined them. He made no excuse whatever, and looked -serious, and unlike his usual cheery self. After a short delay, Saxton -was ushered in,—a middle-aged, clean-shaven man,—of few words.</p> - -<p>"Pray explain, Saxton, where you left Miss Travers, and Sir Dudley?" -said his mistress.</p> - -<p>"That's more than I can say, ma'am," and there was a moment's silence.</p> - -<p>"Well, say <i>something</i>!" urged Mayne impatiently (thrusting a spoon -into what was not his porridge).</p> - -<p>"All I can say, is, that I never laid an eye on either, from the time -we left the race stand—till now."</p> - -<p>"Where did you stop?" asked Mayne; promptly forestalling Mrs. De -Wolfe's anxious questions.</p> - -<p>"At a little old farm by the road, to get water for the engine. I ran -round to the pump and wasn't away two minutes—later on we had a fairly -long wait, maybe a quarter of an hour, at Harraby railway crossing."</p> - -<p>"And you never happened to look back into the car?" suggested Roger De -Wolfe.</p> - -<p>"No, I never does,—I want all my eyes the other way."</p> - -<p>"Very true, all right, go on."</p> - -<p>"Well I was just staggered, when Fox opened the door of the car, and -turned to me, and said, 'Why didn't you go round to the garage? there's -no one inside'—and that's all <i>I</i> know!"</p> - -<p>"Very well, Saxton, that will do," said his mistress, "go now and get -your supper," and with a military salute, Saxton departed.</p> - -<p>"It is the strangest, most extraordinary affair," declared Mrs. De -Wolfe. "I expect Nancy has done something wild, and giddy, and we shall -have her arriving to-night, in the musty old station fly, full of her -adventure, and apologies. I'm not really alarmed,—only puzzled. Well!" -rising as she spoke, "I must return to the ladies; you two, have not -had your smoke. Don't forget that we are playing Bridge,—and want to -make up four tables."</p> - -<p>Bridge proved to be unusually engrossing, and it was only when the -players happened to be Dummy, that their thoughts wandered to the -missing couple. Mayne was not among the card party, he seemed restless, -and unsettled, and wandered into the big hall, where he concealed -himself in one of the largest arm chairs, behind a newspaper. By twelve -o'clock, the last lady guests had retired,—early hours were the rule -at the Court.</p> - -<p>And just about this time, a sinister whisper began to creep up from -the lower regions; it reached Mrs. De Wolfe, as she was taking off -her pearls. In spite of her attitude, the old lady was painfully -anxious. "Thank God," she said to herself, "there was no fear of an -accident,—the car and Saxton had come home intact; but where were -Nancy and Dudley? Surely they must know the misery their absence was -causing."</p> - -<p>Turning to Haynes, her confidential treasure, she said, "Is it not -extraordinary about Miss Travers? Although I have said nothing -downstairs, I am very uneasy, and half inclined to telephone to the -police station. I don't think there's much use in my going to bed, for -I shall certainly not sleep. Why, Haynes, what's the matter, your face -is all blotches,—you've been crying! Don't be foolish, don't you -know, that half the troubles in the world, are those that have never -happened."</p> - -<p>"But this <i>has</i> happened, ma'am," rejoined the maid with a sniff. -"Martin tells me, that Antonio got a wire from his master about eight -o'clock telling him where to bring his own car; and to pack his -clothes, and get Miss Travers' warm coat, and a few things in a suit -case. He said they were going off to Paris together."</p> - -<p>The old lady gave a sharp exclamation, then suddenly sat down. "You -must be out of your mind!" she cried.</p> - -<p>"Martin wouldn't give him a stitch," continued Haynes triumphantly, -"not as much as a pocket-handkerchief; she said she didn't believe a -word he said—and I know myself, that I've caught him out in awful -lies! However, he went and helped himself to a coat out of the -hall—one of <i>yours</i>, I think—took most of Sir Dudley's luggage, -and went off with the car about ten o'clock: all the men saw him—! -Here, wait a second, and I'll get a drop of brandy; keep up, my dear -lady, and don't faint if you can help it, and Mrs. De Wolfe did keep -up,—although she looked like death.</p> - -<p>"I'm too old for these shocks, Haynes," she muttered, after a long -silence, "I thought I was hardened! I suppose so far, this story is -only known downstairs."</p> - -<p>"That's all, ma'am; and I needn't tell you, that not one of the -servants would breathe it."</p> - -<p>The tale was nevertheless stealing through the house. Mrs. Speyde heard -it from her maid; and was at first rudely incredulous. After taking two -or three turns up and down the room, she said, "Wait a moment, I'll not -undress yet—I've forgotten something downstairs."</p> - -<p>"Can't I fetch it, ma'am?"</p> - -<p>"No!" waving her back, "I know where it is myself!"</p> - -<p>She went softly out along the corridor, and stood looking over the -balustrade into the great lounge. Mayne was the only individual -below—the other men were assembled in the smoking-room—suddenly he -glanced up, and beheld Josie in her flame-coloured garment, drifting -down the stairs. She paused half-way, and beckoned to him.</p> - -<p>"Derek, I've something to tell you," she whispered, as she halted -on the lowest step. Glancing round, she leant forward, and said: -"Something <i>dreadful</i> has happened!—<i>Dudley and Nancy have run away to -Paris!</i>"</p> - -<p>Mayne stood very still—he might have been a stone.</p> - -<p>"His own car, and chauffeur have gone to meet them with their -luggage—what a terrible blow for the old lady!"</p> - -<p>What a terrible blow for Mayne! This was the second time that Nancy -had, so to speak, made him to pass through fire. How false, how -treacherous, was that young, and innocent face!</p> - -<p>As Mayne remained speechless, Josie continued: "So still waters run -deep—not that Nancy was ever very <i>still</i>. Although he is my own -cousin, I always knew, that Dudley was a bad lot; a regular rotter! but -as for the girl, I must confess I'm surprised.—Aren't you?"</p> - -<p>"I am," he assented, in a strange dry voice, "surprised in one way, but -not in another. It's not the <i>first</i> time, that Miss Travers has run -away."</p> - -<p>Josie opened her great black eyes, to their widest extent.</p> - -<p>"And <i>you</i> knew all about it—so that is the secret between you!" but -Mayne made no reply, and to her great astonishment, walked across the -hall, snatched his cap from a peg, opened the great door, and went out.</p> - -<p>At this moment, the sound of loud and jovial voices approaching, -warned her, that the smoking-room party were about to disperse, so she -turned about, ran lightly up the stairs, and disappeared into her own -apartment. As for Mayne, he went round into the stable-yard, where men -were still hanging about: one of the neighbours had not yet taken his -departure; he noticed a group of two or three grooms, and a couple of -white-capped women in close conference,—they looked like a gang of -conspirators. The doors of the great garage had not been closed, and as -the moon made everything as bright as day, he saw, that Sir Dudley's -big Mercédès had vanished!</p> - -<p>As she had prognosticated, Mrs. De Wolfe never slept that night. She -looked a wrinkled old wreck, when Haynes brought her her early tea; -nevertheless this Spartan matron, insisted upon getting up and having -herself dressed as usual. In spite of Haynes' expostulations, she -declared, "I'll go down to breakfast, if it costs me my life! The -people upstairs know nothing: so far no one knows the truth, except -the servants, and I feel sure that they will keep this terrible matter -to themselves. All my guests will have departed by twelve o'clock, and -then I shall take to my bed. You may call it a chill, or whatever you -like, but I depend upon you, to allow <i>no one</i> to come near me."</p> - -<p>The old lady's voice was unusually weak: her hands, as she put on her -rings, trembled alarmingly. At last she was ready, and just as she -was about to leave her room, a familiar figure came flying along the -passage, with outstretched hands.</p> - -<p>"Nancy!"</p> - -<p>"Here I am at last!" she gasped out, "and so dreadfully, dreadfully, -sorry, to have tortured you—darling Auntie," embracing her as she -spoke.</p> - -<p>"Where have you been?" said the trembling old lady, endeavouring to -thrust her away.</p> - -<p>"Let me come into your room, and tell you all about it." Taking her -forcibly by the arm, she added, "Do sit down,—you are shaking all -over!"</p> - -<p>Mrs. De Wolfe made no reply, but signalled for her to speak.</p> - -<p>"I spent last night in a cottage near Lofty.—You've heard about the -car having left us behind. This morning, I got up at four o'clock, and -walked over the wet fields, to a little station, and caught a milk -train; I gave the guard five shillings,—and he dropped me at Haygate. -Then I got the old fly,—and here I am!"</p> - -<p>"And Dudley,—what has become of Dudley?"</p> - -<p>"Haynes," said Nancy, suddenly turning towards her, "would you mind -asking Martin to get my bath ready,—I do feel such a grub!"</p> - -<p>Yes, for the first time in her life, Nancy appeared positively -draggled: her hat was battered, her muslin race-gown torn and soiled, -her smart shoes were covered with mud,—whilst her face looked worn, -and almost haggard.</p> - -<p>As soon as Haynes had departed, she sat down on the sofa by Mrs. -De Wolfe, and taking her hand, she said, "Auntie, Sir Dudley has -shown himself in his true colours, at last. He is a horrible, -false, evil-minded wretch—yes, he <i>is</i>," then very rapidly she -told how she could not resist the temptation to inspect the old -chest, of the departure of the motor, and the wire dispatched to -recall Saxton—sometimes speaking breathlessly, sometimes speaking -deliberately, always with a great agitation, Nancy related the story -of her experience in Mrs. Bode's front parlour;—to all of which her -companion listened with an expression of incredulous horror.</p> - -<p>When at last Nancy ceased to speak, she said: "Oh, to think of Dudley: -Dudley, whom I've almost thought of as a son,—<i>what</i> a traitor! If -anyone but you, had told me this—I would not have believed it. I must -confess, this adventure of yours, has been a terrible revelation, -another illusion destroyed. I have lost a life-long belief. Well, what -you and I, have now to do, is to conceal this escapade. I shall go -down, and announce your return. What cock and a bull story am I to tell -them, Nancy?"</p> - -<p>She rose as she spoke, and confronted her young friend,—looking -terribly old, and shaken.</p> - -<p>"Tell them?" repeated Nancy, "let me think! Tell them, that Sir Dudley -and I were left behind,—thanks to Saxton's mistake, and that I was -obliged to remain at the cottage for the night; but that Sir Dudley -made his way to the nearest station, and went up to London. Do you -think that will do?"</p> - -<p>"It may pass! but what about his sending for his own car?"</p> - -<p>"I don't suppose that will come out till later."</p> - -<p>"No! Of course the servants will talk,—but their masters and -mistresses who are leaving me to-day are bound to believe <i>my</i> version -of the adventure,—the least they can do after a week's hospitality!"</p> - -<p>"Then I shall hurry off and have my bath, and dress," said Nancy, "and -come down as soon as possible, and show myself. It will be rather a -strain, all things considered, for just at present, I should like to go -away, and have a really good comfortable cry."</p> - -<hr class="chap" /> - -<h2>CHAPTER XXXVI</h2> - -<h3>"TO HIM WHO WAITS——"</h3> - - -<p>Mrs. Bode's motley collection of good old "bits" of glass and china, -odds and ends of quaint rubbish—samplers, beads, monster shells, -mouldy books of great age, and Mrs. Bode's funny talk, had kept -Nancy well amused, and occupied for nearly an hour, and then her -hostess insisted on providing a meal, tea, home-made bread, fresh -butter, russet apples, and cold bacon. With considerable pomp this -simple repast, borne on a huge black tray,—was carried to the -front sitting-room, or parlour, and there laid out upon a fine gate -table,—flanked by cottage Chippendale chairs. From the deep narrow -window, overlooking the road, Nancy leant out, and beckoned gaily to -Sir Dudley,—who all this time had been pacing to and fro, smoking -endless cigarettes.</p> - -<p>As Nancy poured out tea, and he took a place opposite, she wondered if -by any chance, Mrs. Bode would take them for husband and wife? Mrs. -Bode, having as she considered, "done her manners," and pressed jam, -bacon, and apples, in turn upon Sir Dudley, with an excuse about a sick -calf, left them to their own devices. Sir Dudley appeared unusually -silent and restless, he refused tea, but munched an apple, and then got -up and began to pace about the long low room. His manner was that of a -man, whose nerves were on edge.</p> - -<p>"I can't think what is keeping the car," remarked Nancy, for the third -time; "surely that boy took the wire," and she, too, rose, and returned -to her post in the narrow deep-set window, through which the moonlight -streamed into the room, making everything as clear as day.</p> - -<p>"It is five minutes past ten by my watch."</p> - -<p>"I expect your watch is fast," said Sir Dudley, as he joined her.</p> - -<p>"Did you ever behold a more glorious night? <i>Dio mio!</i> What a night for -lovers!" he murmured, as he confronted her in the narrow space.</p> - -<p>Nancy felt a little uncomfortable; a vague sensation of apprehension -came to her. "I think—I hear the car now," she announced, but her -voice had an uncertain sound.</p> - -<p>"It's just like old times, to have you all to <i>myself</i>—even for an -hour or two," continued her companion—ignoring her remark—"I'm in no -hurry."</p> - -<p>"But <i>I</i> am," she declared with a nervous laugh.</p> - -<p>"Everything comes to him who waits! I have waited nearly a year: and -now, Nancy darling—" here Sir Dudley suddenly put his arm round her -waist, "I've got you at <i>last</i>!"</p> - -<p>For a moment she was too paralysed to move; then as she felt his grip -tightening, with a tremendous effort, she wrenched herself away, and -backed against the shutter, breathless, and gasping.</p> - -<p>"What do you mean?" she stammered. "How dare you?"</p> - -<p>"A man dares anything, when he loves a woman—as for what I <i>mean</i>, -I'll soon explain,—it's all I ask," he answered in a husky voice, now -seizing both her wrists in a vice-like grip, and devouring her with -his burning eyes. "Nancy, my love, I've adored you, from the moment -we first met; but Auntie Wolfe's presence, and your own strange cold -temperament,—held me in a state of frozen bondage. At first, I swear -to you, I strove hard to strangle, and hide my feelings,—because -Auntie Wolfe, my mother's friend, <i>believes</i> in me; but it was useless. -After all, <i>why</i> should I struggle against my good angel? and you are -cold and undemonstrative, as an angel should be—nevertheless, you <i>do</i> -care for me."</p> - -<p>"No, no, no," protested Nancy breathlessly.—"Never—never—in the way -you mean—I think you must be mad! Let go my hands."</p> - -<p>"But yes, yes, yes," he reiterated. "To what other fellow, have you -ever shown such preference? With me, you are always ready to sing, -or dance, or sketch, or walk. I have watched like a lynx,—for I am -as jealous as the devil,—and you have favoured <i>none</i>! As for Tony -Hillside and Lord Lanark, bah!! You and I have tastes in common, we -shall spend our lives together; we will go to Greece, to the Far East, -to Japan,—and I will be your humble, and devoted slave."</p> - -<p>"<i>Will</i> you release my hands?" she demanded furiously.</p> - -<p>"Presently, darling,—when I have said my say! Listen. Auntie Wolfe -will forgive me in time; my wife will divorce me,—it will be merely a -question of money."</p> - -<p>Nancy endeavoured to interrupt, but it was useless; she was overpowered -by a fiery torrent of words, and an emotion, ten times stronger than -her own.</p> - -<p>"Sometimes you drove me mad," he went on, "I felt inclined to kill you, -and myself,—now fate has helped me!"</p> - -<p>"I thought you were an honourable man," she broke in, "so this delay -about the car deserting us, was all planned."</p> - -<p>"No! I swear to you—I'll take my oath it was not," relinquishing her -hands at last; "for once, good fortune has befriended me, and thrown -me a priceless chance. I should like to pension that silly ass of a -chauffeur; for thanks to <i>him</i>, you are irretrievably compromised! -Yes!" in reply to Nancy's gesture of recoil, "all the world will know, -that you and I, have spent the night here together. As Miss Travers, -you can never show your face in society; but later, as Lady Villars, -you will be welcomed with open arms. The wire I sent, was to my man -Antonio, telling him to bring my car and luggage here; I expect him -about eleven, possibly earlier; as soon as he arrives, we will start -for Folkestone, catch the early boat, and be in Paris in four hours!"</p> - -<p>"Surely you do not suppose, that I will go with you," demanded Nancy -fiercely.</p> - -<p>"I do not suppose you have any alternative!" he answered impressively. -"Of course I know, that I have startled you, by this unexpected <i>coup</i>, -but before long, believe me, Nancy, you will look upon this evening, -as the beginning of a new, and splendid life! <i>You</i> were not borne to -waste your best days with an old woman,—who, much as I love her, saps -one's vitality! You cannot deny that I am handsome, well born, wealthy, -and adore you,—and if your cold little heart cares for anyone,—it -cares for <i>me</i>. We were born to be happy together."</p> - -<p>"What crazy talk!" cried Nancy, and she made an effort to pass him.</p> - -<p>"No! no! my own darling; you shall stay here, and listen to me. Such -love as mine, will kindle yours; it will,—it <i>must</i>!"</p> - -<p>Nancy's lips trembled—but she made no reply; she glanced at him, then -round the room, with the eyes of a trapped animal; suddenly she made -a dart, and placed the table between them. Oh! if she could but reach -the door; but with folded arms, Sir Dudley stood between her, and that -means of escape,—eyeing her strangely. At last, she said, in a low -faint voice: "You spoke just now, about your wife?"</p> - -<p>He nodded. "Yes! a she-devil; she's had serious money losses lately, -and I shall have no difficulty in bringing her to terms; my <i>wife</i> will -be all right!"</p> - -<p>"And what of my—<i>husband</i>?"</p> - -<p>Villars broke into a loud derisive laugh, and said: "My own most -exquisite Nancy, why invent a fairy tale? You and I, will live, a fairy -tale."</p> - -<p>"It is no fairy tale," she answered, "I was married in India before I -came home."</p> - -<p>"Pardon me,—but I do not believe it."</p> - -<p>"I cannot help that,—but it is true! Mrs. Ffinch knows, so does Mrs. -Hicks; she saw me married; it was all legal: my father wished it to -take place,—as he was dying."</p> - -<p>"And who are you?—who is your husband?"</p> - -<p>"Captain Mayne."</p> - -<p>"<i>Mayne!</i> why the joke gets better and better! you don't even speak; -could you not think of someone more probable? What a preposterous -make-up."</p> - -<p>"It's no make-up, on my honour."</p> - -<p>"Does Mrs. De Wolfe know?" he demanded sharply.</p> - -<p>"No!"</p> - -<p>"Nothing will ever make me believe your foolish story; if it were the -truth, <i>why</i> conceal it?"</p> - -<p>"Because"—choking as she spoke—"immediately after the ceremony my -father died; I was crazy with grief, I <i>hated</i> the sight of Captain -Mayne, I wrote, and told him this,—and then I ran away."</p> - -<p>"Ah! so you <i>can</i> run away! Do you hate Captain Mayne now?"</p> - -<p>"No, and if he would ask me, I would go back to him to-morrow."</p> - -<p>Villars became suddenly livid—after a second's pause, a great -perpendicular vein showed itself suddenly in his forehead.</p> - -<p>"You would, would you? Well, from what I've seen of Mayne, he's the -last sort of fellow to give you another chance; and anyhow this -little episode with <i>me</i>, will, if you <i>are</i> his wife, choke him off -altogether! Listen to me, Nancy, I implore you; why waste your lovely -youth? Why not come with me: live while you live, and see the far away -beautiful world? And you <i>shall</i> come with me," he concluded doggedly.</p> - -<p>"I'd infinitely rather die!" she answered with decision.</p> - -<p>"Oh, Nancy, when you speak, and look like that,—you break my heart; -for months you have been my hope, and star,—my one thought,—my only -object in life. Surely you <i>guessed</i>?"</p> - -<p>"Never! or do you suppose, I should have been so friendly, and sisterly -and trustful? Mrs. De Wolfe said your emotional speeches, and impulsive -acts, were merely your Italian way,—and meant nothing,—she was -mistaken, I see!"</p> - -<p>"She was," now approaching, his eyes flaming in a white face.</p> - -<p>At this moment, the door opened, and Mrs. Bode appeared in a bedgown -and slippers. "There's ten o'clock gone, sir, and I'm thinking, -that you and your lady, will have to stop here to-night. I can make -up a room: it's not very grand, but,——" further information was -interrupted,—by Nancy, who, thrusting the astonished matron violently -aside, dashed out of the door, and ran down the long passage into the -kitchen. The sound of Nancy's high-heeled shoes racing along the flags, -brought Villars to his senses; he had a marvellous power of recovery -and self-control; he had realized from the first, when Nancy recoiled -from him against the shutter, that the game was lost! nevertheless, -some infernal, perverse, impulse, urged him to persist! He might yet -gain her by threats, and alarms—such cases had been known!</p> - -<p>What devil had entered into him, and forced him to snatch his -opportunity; had whispered into his ear,—as he wrote that telegram in -this accursed room? The insanity of half an hour, had cost him the loss -of Nancy, and his old godmother. Naturally the Court would be closed to -him for the rest of his life. Yes! he had pretty well cooked himself. -Well! he must make the most of a bad job!</p> - -<p>Meanwhile, Mrs. Bode was staring at him, with her hands on her hips and -her mouth half open. At last he turned round, and said: "The young lady -and I have had a falling out."</p> - -<p>"Looks a bit like it, sir! and I declare, here's the car come back -for you at last!" for just at this moment, Antonio glided up to the -entrance. Strange to say, neither the man nor motor were the same—this -vehicle was a big grey open car, and there was luggage, and a lady's -fur-lined coat, which the chauffeur brought in, and handed to Mrs. Bode -with a ceremonious bow.</p> - -<p>"Will you ask the lady to speak to me?" said Villars, as he pressed a -sovereign into Mrs. Bode's horny palm.</p> - -<p>"Thank you, sir; it's entirely too much,—entirely too much! I'll go -and fetch the young lady," and Mrs. Bode padded off in her roomy felt -slippers. She found Nancy, in the kitchen,—looking strangely white, -and shaken.</p> - -<p>"The car has come, miss," she announced cheerfully, "and here's your -fur coat. The gentleman will be thankful, if he might speak to you?"</p> - -<p>"No, Mrs. Bode, I will never speak to that gentleman again! If he -follows me here I shall run away into the fields, or," looking round, -"anywhere!"</p> - -<p>"Then you ain't going with him in that lovely car, miss?"</p> - -<p>"No, I'm going to stay here to-night, Mrs. Bode; if you can give me a -bed or even a chair, and to-morrow morning <i>very</i> early, I'll get Dan -to show me the way to the station."</p> - -<p>"Oh, all right, miss, I'll give you a bed, and be pleased. At first, I -thought you were man and wife,—specially as he walked about outside, -and left you here by your lone,—but I see you've no ring."</p> - -<p>"The gentleman is nothing to me,—nothing, <i>worse</i> than nothing," cried -Nancy passionately, "we happen to be staying in the same house, that -was all; and the car left us here by mistake."</p> - -<p>Sounds of a brisk booted foot, coming down the long passage; Nancy -looked at Mrs. Bode, who hastily opened a door, and thrust her through. -She found herself at the foot of some queer old stairs, that twisted -round a huge beam or post, and led up to a low loft-like bedroom, -with two windows, flush with the floor. Here was a tester bed, -painted washstand, and a beautiful chest of drawers, and here Nancy, -exhausted, and trembling, sat upon a low straw chair, her eyes riveted -on the grey motor car, immediately beneath them. It seemed to be -several hours,—but was really twenty minutes, before the car, and its -occupants, moved slowly out of sight.</p> - -<p>After a brief interview with her hostess,—who had appeared with a pair -of clean sheets,—Nancy lay down on the tester bed, and in spite of a -lumpy mattress, and an overpowering smell of old feathers, slept, until -a shrill young cock, announced the breaking of another day.</p> - -<hr class="chap" /> - -<h2>CHAPTER XXXVII</h2> - -<h3>NANCY CARRIES IT OFF!</h3> - - -<p>There was no trace of tears on Nancy's smiling face, when three -quarters of an hour later, she appeared among the company, looking -particularly fresh, and self-possessed. In answer to eager queries, -she gave a vivid description of the lure of the oak chest, her rustic -hostess, her unique sleeping chamber, and early morning excursion -across meadows steeped in dew.</p> - -<p>"And what about Sir Dudley all this time?" inquired Mrs. Speyde, "you -haven't <i>murdered</i> him by any chance, have you?"</p> - -<p>The reply to this question, came in Mrs. De Wolfe's very deepest voice, -"Dudley Villars made himself scarce, of course; he is a man of the -world and able to cope with awkward incidents. He was leaving to-day -under any circumstances,—and has already sent for his car."</p> - -<p>By degrees the subject subsided, and lapsed; the guests were more or -less engaged in preparations for their departure, there was not much -time, for sustained discussion, and as far as Nancy was concerned, an -exhausting ordeal, was satisfactorily closed.</p> - -<p>Before her numerous friends motored away to the station, or to their -several homes in the neighbourhood, Nancy held a short parley with two. -Firstly, with Mrs. Hicks, who pounced upon her in the hall, and drawing -her into one of the embrasures, said: "My dear child, I've scarcely had -a word with you these two days; and I've just been longing and <i>aching</i> -to hear what you and Mayne said to one another on Thursday evening? I -suppose you know that <i>I</i> sent him!"</p> - -<p>"I suppose I do," rejoined Nancy bluntly.</p> - -<p>"Has anything been settled?"</p> - -<p>"No, not exactly; I believe he went away early this morning."</p> - -<p>"He did," assented Mrs. Hicks, "but he is within reach, and you can -easily put your hand upon him. Always remember, my dear child, that -whenever I can do anything for you, or him, I will. I've had a most -gorgeous time! everyone has been so jolly and friendly, it's almost as -if I was back in India, and I'll never forget this tennis week as long -as ever I live. Now I must go and get my things together, as I see my -train is 12.5, so ta, ta, for the present," and she moved off.</p> - -<p>The broad back of Mrs. Hicks was scarcely out of sight, before she was -superseded by Billy Miller, who was evidently charged with an important -subject.</p> - -<p>"Our car has not arrived yet, Nancy," she began, and taking her arm -she added, "I want you to come out on the lawn with me,—for I've got -something to tell you," and Nancy assenting, the two girls passed -through the wide french window, and strolled down towards the tennis -courts.</p> - -<p>"I should like you to be one of the first to know, that I am engaged -to Major Horne," announced Miss Miller. "We settled it last evening, -out here in the moonlight."</p> - -<p>"Oh, Billy, I'm delighted!" said Nancy. "I always thought it was going -to come off. I think he is charming, and you will have a delightful -mother-in-law,—but what will become of your family?"</p> - -<p>"They will have to look after themselves," was the heartless rejoinder. -"I have given them a splendid start; you see Minna is married, Brenda -is engaged, there is only Baby left,—and she is the flower of the -flock; then you know some of us will always be coming backwards and -forwards. The Pater has taken a house in town,—which will be a sort -of family hotel. Of course, Nancy, I expect you to be one of my -bridesmaids. By the way, my dear, you nearly gave us fits last evening."</p> - -<p>"I'm afraid I did, and I cannot say that <i>I</i> was very happy myself."</p> - -<p>"No; I could see that Mrs. De Wolfe was on tenterhooks, although she -did her best, to pretend that your staying out all night, was a mere -everyday affair! Next to her, amazing to relate, the one who took your -absence most sorely to heart, was a mere acquaintance,—Captain Mayne! -He seemed uncommonly abstracted, and silent, and that was not all,—I -wish it had been; his room happened to be over mine, and I could hear -him walking about the whole night! I would go to sleep and wake up, -and there he was, still doing sentry go! At one time I had an idea -of getting out of bed, and knocking on the ceiling with an umbrella: -perhaps he had toothache?"</p> - -<p>"Perhaps he had," assented Nancy, but in her heart she knew, that it -was not toothache, but dreadful misgivings with regard to herself, that -had made him pace his room! He had warned her more than once against -Sir Dudley; and his suspicions, and dislike, had proved to be only too -well founded.</p> - -<hr class="tb" /> - -<p>When all the guests had departed, a Sunday calm descended on the Court. -Mrs. Horne and Roger De Wolfe, still remained; the former as a support -and confidante and comfort to her old friend, fatigued by her recent -activities, and greatly shaken by Nancy's adventure,—required someone -of her own age, into whose ear she could pour her troubles.</p> - -<p>The two old ladies wandered about the green lawns, or sat in the shade -together, enjoying what is known, as a "good talk." The chief subject -of Mrs. De Wolfe's discourse, was Dudley Villars; that catastrophe -had dislocated years of happy friendship. "I had hereto always quoted -him, believed in him, and look at what he has done!" Mrs. Horne, -an unusually noble-minded woman, never attempted to recall their -interview, and her warning at Cadenabbia—merely contenting herself -with saying, "I never liked Sir Dudley, or trusted him, my dear; but I -thought that perhaps, as you were so fond of him, there must be good in -him, which <i>I</i> could not discover."</p> - -<p>Whilst these two friends enjoyed one another's society, Roger De Wolfe -went round the farms, and coverts, with bailiff and keepers, more as -agent, for his cousin, than with the eye of a man inspecting his future -possessions! He was, as Mrs. De Wolfe had said, a good, single-minded, -stupid fellow,—forty years of age, and still unmarried. Even his -best friends were bound to admit that Roger was a bore;—a silent -bore,—which is one of the most trying description. The type that sits, -and sticks, scarcely speaking,—obviously waiting to be entertained; -absorbing ideas, like a great sponge.</p> - -<p>Nancy liked Roger; at least he was restful; and when his two chief -topics were exhausted,—prize retrievers, and carpentering—she -suffered him to, so to speak, "stew in his own juice." They played -croquet, and the girls from the Rectory came up and made a set at -tennis; but as a rule Nancy spent a good deal of time with herself; -lounging in a hammock, dipping into a novel, or sitting on the rustic -seat, at the end of the long turf walk. The two old ladies went -motoring of an afternoon, and Mrs. De Wolfe expressed her intention of -calling on Mrs. Bode and thanking her in person.</p> - -<p>"I daresay you will like to come too, Nancy," she said.</p> - -<p>"On the contrary, I don't think I could endure to see that house again; -no I really couldn't face it! I have already written to Mrs. Bode and -sent her a present, and if she offers you a blue bowl, please say that -I have changed my mind,—but you need not add, that I do not wish for -anything to remind me of her abode."</p> - -<p>The day following her visit to Mrs. Bode, Mrs. De Wolfe declared, that -she must go and look up Richard Mayne. "I fancy he is feeling rather -lonely, now that his nephew has departed, and I'll ask him over on -a little visit. I must confess, I was greatly affronted with Derek: -rushing out of the house before breakfast,—just as if it had been an -hotel; it would have served him right, if I had sent a stiff bill after -him! However, I had a nice note from him,—a note of apology, telling -me, that he had been unable to wait to see me that morning, as urgent -business summoned him to London, and he hoped that I would forgive -him? I expect he will be down again, before long, for the partridge -shooting, and then I shall give him a piece of my mind, for although I -like the boy, I don't hold with these casual manners."</p> - -<p>Nancy did not accompany the two ladies, she preferred to take the dogs -out, and as she was crossing the hall, Sutton approached her with a -solemn face, bearing a note on the salver, and said, "I am very sorry, -Miss Travers, but this note was given to me for you just a week ago. -It happened at an awkward time, before dinner, the night of that -big party. I put it inside the wine book, in my pantry, and forgot -all about it until now; such an oversight has never happened to me -before; but I hope you will excuse me, miss, knowing what a lot I had -on my mind, and so many things to see to. I trust the note is of no -consequence,—I see it was written in the house."</p> - -<p>Yes—there on the flap of the envelope was "Newenham Court."</p> - -<p>"Thank you, Sutton," said Nancy, "I expect it is all right," then -turning over the note, she was startled to find that it was addressed -to her in Mayne's handwriting. She tore it open, and read:</p> - -<div class="blockquot"> - -<p class="ph1">Thursday evening.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">My dear Nancy</span>,</p> - -<p>It was very unfortunate, that our conversation this afternoon was -interrupted, I should much like to have a <i>talk</i>. May I find you -in the little book room immediately after dinner? I shall be there -anyhow, about nine o'clock.</p> - -<p class="ph1">Yours always,<br /> -<span class="smcap">D. Mayne</span>.</p></div> - -<p>This was dreadful; not only had she failed to keep the rendezvous, -but she had been absent the whole of the following night; and had not -arrived home, until after his departure. Naturally, to him, the whole -affair must present the blackest aspect. What would she do? what -could she do? She felt almost distraught, as she wandered out into the -garden, and walked up and down the long turf track, in much the same -frame of mind, as that, which had kept Mayne afoot for a whole night.</p> - -<p>She remembered the evening of the tournament—how he had never come -near her, but, how she had caught his eyes watching her gravely, as -she and Sir Dudley sang duets. She would write to him immediately, -and give him a full account of her hateful adventure in Mrs. Bode's -cottage, and she would ask him to arrange for them to have an immediate -meeting. Her present position, was insupportable, the secret altogether -too heavy a burden. She was not playing the game, in keeping such a -page of her past from Mrs. De Wolfe, nor was it honourable to pass -herself off, as a spinster, among the young men of her acquaintance. -If Mayne had not returned home,—and at least if they had not come -across one another,—matters might have remained in abeyance for years; -but now that she knew him, and time had softened a far away tragedy, -she realized that she loved him; yes, to herself, there was no use in -thrusting away, or trying to evade the truth.</p> - -<p>The question was, did he love her? Perhaps! probably! Yes, a girl has -an intuition in these things; of course there was the money; that was -still a rock of offence; but many men had married women with fortunes, -and the marriages had not been unhappy!—Quite the contrary, by all -accounts; and she could point out to him, that when they were married, -<i>he</i> had been the rich partner, and she as poor as a church mouse. -Partridge shooting would begin shortly, she would probably see him -in a few days—meanwhile she would <i>write</i>. She sat for a long time -mentally composing her letter. At last, she heard the motor return, and -presently she rose to meet the two old ladies, who were coming towards -her across the lawn.</p> - -<p>"Well!" she exclaimed, "how did you find Mr. Mayne?"</p> - -<p>"Oh, my dear," replied Mrs. De Wolfe, throwing up her hands, "I never -saw him in such low spirits,—we really couldn't help feeling very -sorry for him,—what <i>do</i> you think? Derek Mayne has gone back to -India,—he left for Marseilles yesterday morning."</p> - -<p>"Gone back to India," repeated Nancy, "but why? I heard he had got an -extension of leave."</p> - -<p>"Yes, but there is some trouble on the frontier, they say, and Derek -is high up among the captains of his regiment, and I have always heard -a very keen soldier; Mrs. Horne and I have put our heads together, and -come to the conclusion that there's something more in his departure, -than meets the eye.—Perhaps we shall all know some day? Well, anyway, -Nancy, the news does not affect <i>you</i>, for somehow, you and Derek were -never particularly friendly."</p> - -<p>To this, Nancy made no answer, and if her old friend had not been -engaged in returning the caresses of three dogs, she might have noticed -that her young friend looked strangely pale.</p> - -<hr class="chap" /> - -<h2>CHAPTER XXXVIII</h2> - -<h3>THE INDIAN MAIL</h3> - - -<p>When Nancy found herself in her own room, she locked the door, and -sat down to face this unexpected situation,—this new trouble. She -was well aware of the reason of Derek's abrupt departure, but surely -it was impossible for him to believe that she had run away with Sir -Dudley? he must have heard from his uncle, that she was still at the -Court. However, it was evident, that he had received a bad impression -of her character, and would have nothing further to say to her! She -immediately determined to write to him, and found wonderful comfort in -the conviction, that she could clear herself by pen and paper,—but -unfortunately the letter would have to wait for days before it could -be dispatched. This important epistle she wrote, re-wrote, corrected, -and copied, over and over again. Sometimes she found that it said too -much, sometimes too little; sometimes it was too bold, sometimes too -formal,—and always too <i>long</i>. After many hours of meditation, and -changing her mind, and destroying much note-paper, she completed in -two sheets, an explanation, which she believed would do,—and leave no -disagreeable <i>arrière pensée</i> upon her conscience.</p> - -<p>With considerable diplomacy she obtained the correct address from -Mr. Mayne, motored over to Maynesfort alone, took tea with the old -gentleman, entertained him with lively talk, made a casual inquiry, and -accomplished her errand! On mail day, the momentous dispatch was duly -posted by her own hand.</p> - -<p>The next event in Nancy's existence, was the death of Mrs. Jenkins. A -sudden seizure of apoplexy carried her off in a few hours; her will -proved to be a surprising document, and a bitter disappointment to Mrs. -Taylor. To her dear friend Henrietta Taylor, she only left one hundred -pounds, to Miss Dolling, fifty pounds,—for the purchase of a mourning -ring,—the Pom and a substantial sum were bequeathed to the butler; -three hundred a year and her wardrobe, to Baker, her faithful maid; -her pearls and her portrait to her dear niece, Nancy Travers, as well -as the Travers silver and books; all the remainder—including lease of -house and investments—were to his great surprise bequeathed to the -nephew of her late husband, Samuel Jenkins.</p> - -<p>After all, it was but just and fair, that the Jenkins money, should -return to the Jenkins purse? But why should poor Mrs. Taylor be cut -off with a hundred pounds?—alas! the sad truth must be disclosed. -Although Mrs. Taylor enjoyed prolonged midnight conferences, it was -Baker, the maid, who had the very <i>last</i> word, when putting her lady to -bed. Baker cordially hated Mrs. Taylor,—naturally it was painful for -her to witness the valuable presents, and beautiful dresses, that the -weak-minded old lady bestowed upon her toady.—By gradual degrees, the -crafty woman dropped some poisonous truths into her mistress's ear; she -even inferred, that Mrs. Taylor was a double-faced friend; who said one -thing to her lady's face, and another behind her back!</p> - -<p>"I know for a fact, that she told Mrs. Seymour as how your memory was -going," boldly announced Baker,—with her mistress's little rat tail of -back hair, tightly clenched in her hand, "and that you really wanted -someone like herself, to look after you, and your affairs."</p> - -<p>Although Mrs. Jenkins had angrily repudiated this information, and -commanded the maid to hold her tongue, nevertheless the dart rankled, -and went far to counteract Mrs. Taylor's honeyed speeches, and -audacious flatteries. To these, Mrs. Jenkins listened greedily,—but -she was a sly old thing, and took notes. One or two of her visitors, -had ventured hints respecting Mrs. Taylor and her pretensions,—for her -arrogance had become insupportable. It had been whispered, that she had -already decided what she intended to do with the house in Queen's Gate, -when it was her property; and had more than once rashly intimated, -that her dear friend Mrs. Jenkins was "breaking up!"</p> - -<p>Nancy, who was much surprised at the news of her legacy, stored the -picture, sent the pearls to her bank, and went into slight mourning. -In these days, she felt nearly as dull and silent as Roger De -Wolfe,—although she made a valiant effort to appear otherwise: she -was counting the very hours, until she could receive an answer to her -letter,—but perhaps Derek would not reply?</p> - -<p>Her hopes went up and down, like a see-saw—at one moment she was -sanguine—the next visited by despair. Undoubtedly it was an agreeable -distraction to Nancy, and a pleasure to her other friends, when Mrs. -Ffinch appeared upon the scene. She looked thin, and weather-beaten, -but as active, and energetic as ever. At first she came down to stay -with the Hillsides,—and later to the Court,—a much more comfortable -abode. She had frequently visited there as a girl, and now made herself -thoroughly at home. Naturally she saw a great change in her protégée; -here was another Nancy from the flapper of Fairplains,—and the two, -had long and intimate talks: having many topics, and one secret in -common.</p> - -<p>"And so you had Mayne at home," said Finchie.</p> - -<p>With this abrupt remark, she had opened their first <i>tête-à-tête</i>. -"Yes. By accident you fell not 'among thieves,' but, among his friends! -That marriage was a terrible disaster. If I had not happened to be -away,—it would never have taken place. Just see, what a fix you -are in; a girl of your appearance and position, could marry almost -anybody,—including my poor Tony. Dear me, Nancy, how much I should -like you for a niece! Perhaps it could come off after all; for I -suppose you are aware, that Captain Mayne could get rid of you if he -liked.—Desertion! but what an <i>esclandre</i>! You would have to go back -to Fairplains, and bury yourself temporarily among the coffee bushes! -You and he have met I know,—and met often, I believe he was actually -staying here!"</p> - -<p>Nancy nodded.</p> - -<p>"And there it ended for the present? I understand he has returned to -India. I do not know what he and Josie have been up to,—at least I can -guess what <i>she</i> has been doing,—flirting for all she is worth,—but -she has her knife into Derek Mayne up to the hilt; and for what -reason?—the rest is silence! Ah! here is the postman coming up the -back avenue, let us go down and waylay him, for this is Indian Mail -day, and I am expecting the usual screed from my old man."</p> - -<p>As the ladies waited whilst the postman sorted out "the Court letters," -Nancy's heart almost stood still; would there be one for her, or not? -There <i>was</i>! She turned her back upon her two companions, and opened it -with trembling fingers.</p> - -<div class="blockquot"> - -<p>Hawari Camp,<br /> -Darwaza Hills,<br /> -N. W. Frontier.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">My dear Nancy</span>,</p> - -<p>I was <i>very</i> glad to receive your letter, which makes everything -clear. Fate was dead against that interview, perhaps I may get -home when this bit of a scrap is over; we are expecting to have a -brush with the tribes at once. If I do manage leave, I shall return -immediately, and hope our meeting may come off,—the third time is the -charm. I write in desperate haste to catch the Dâk just going down, as -I want you to have this answer without delay. My hands are so frozen, -I can scarcely hold my pen; will write again next week.</p> - -<p class="ph1">Yours always,<br /> -D. M.</p></div> - -<p>This letter filled Nancy with a glow of happiness and a sense of joy -and relief, such as she had not known for many a long day. She hurried -up the avenue clutching her treasure, half afraid that Finchie would -overtake and cross-examine her, but looking back she noticed, that -Finchie, with a large bundle of correspondence in her hand, was still -gossiping with the postman.</p> - -<hr class="chap" /> - -<h2>CHAPTER XXXIX</h2> - -<h3>THE AVOWAL</h3> - - -<p>It was mid October and the woods round Newenham were not now dressed -in green, but clothed in various shades of brown, dark red, and deep -orange; in the grounds, one no longer heard the continual rattle of -the mowing machine; the gardeners were busy with barrows and brooms, -sweeping up, and removing, the endless showers of withered leaves. -Within, the atmosphere was gay and sunny, here were various congenial -guests: Roger De Wolfe and Major Horne had come for the pheasant -shooting. Mrs. Horne, Billy and Baby Miller were of the party, and Mrs. -Hicks who had rushed down on a flying visit, before she sailed for -India, also Mrs. Ffinch, and Mr. Mayne.</p> - -<p>The solitary old gentleman, had seemed so dull and depressed, that Mrs. -De Wolfe insisted that he should join her circle—even for a few days. -To Nancy she said, "I've no doubt that the gossips will think that -we are going to be married at <i>last</i>; they settled a match years and -years ago, and how my boys used to laugh and chaff me! You will look -after him, Nancy, the old man is devoted to you, and you are devoted -to him, and I must confess, I admire the courage with which you take -him on at Bridge; a most hopeless and expensive partner, who doubles -and re-doubles, even if he holds a Yarborough; the old gambling spirit -re-appearing in a milder form!"</p> - -<p>It was five o'clock in the afternoon, the party were collected round -the tea table in the hall,—a table laden with rare old silver, a fine -Crown Derby tea-service, hot scones—savoury sandwiches and cakes too -numerous to mention—and Mrs. Ffinch,—who never lost sight of an -opportunity,—had cleverly manœuvred dull Roger De Wolfe into a seat -next to lively Baby Miller. In the opinion of this astute matron, -it was full time that Roger was married; he was forty, his hair was -thinning on the top, his figure was thickening; in short, she was -resolved upon this match. Glancing over the girls in the neighbourhood, -she found none so suitable to be the future mistress of the Court, as -pretty, red-haired "Baby."</p> - -<p>She could see that Roger was already dazzled and fascinated, and it -would be a most desirable alliance. Roger was plain, silent, and -worthy; Baby was a charming chatterbox, and a nice, good, clever girl; -some day, she would and should be the châtelaine of this dear old -house, and take charge of the precious family treasures, when their -present owner had passed away. There was a loud hum of talking, and -laughing, Major Horne and Roger De Wolfe were discussing their day's -sport, Mr. Mayne and Mrs. De Wolfe were still wrangling about their -last rubber, when Sutton entered, salver in hand.</p> - -<p>"Your letters have just come, sir," he said, approaching Mr. Mayne. -"Are there any orders for Graham?"</p> - -<p>The old gentleman took up his letters, glanced at them indifferently, -and answered, "No, not to-day," turning to Mrs. De Wolfe he added:</p> - -<p>"Only a bill from my saddler, and a letter from Julia Torquilstone. -I wonder what the deuce <i>she</i> is writing about?" he added -peevishly—"sure to <i>want</i> something," and he laid it unopened by his -plate. "I was hoping to hear from my boy. I know the mail came in two -days ago."</p> - -<p>Nancy too had hoped for a letter; but her hopes had been doomed to -disappointment.</p> - -<p>As soon as Mr. Mayne had disposed of Mrs. De Wolfe's argument, -and a second cup of tea, he opened the neglected epistle from his -sister-in-law,—and read it with a frowning face.</p> - -<p>"Here's bad news!" he exclaimed, in a tone which silenced every other -voice. "Julia has had a line from the War Office, to say that Derek has -been dangerously wounded in some action with the hill tribes. Oh, these -little wars, and what they cost us!"</p> - -<p>"Are there any particulars?" inquired Mrs. De Wolfe.</p> - -<p>"There you are!" handing her an official telegram. "I suppose," and his -voice was husky, "he will leave his bones out there, like his father."</p> - -<p>When Mrs. De Wolfe had glanced over the slip of paper, she was not a -little surprised, to see Nancy rise from her place, and stretch out a -trembling hand.</p> - -<p>"May I see it too?" she asked. The question was so clear and so -unexpected, that every eye was riveted on the pale girl, whose gaze -was bent on the telegram,—that is to say every eye, save those of Mr. -Mayne, who was apparently engulfed in his own trouble.</p> - -<p>"I suppose he will die out there alone!" he groaned. "Of course Julia -won't stir, I'm too old,—and there's nobody else to go."</p> - -<p>"<i>I</i> will go," announced Nancy, steadying herself by a tall Charles the -First chair, and looking round the assembled company, with a white and -rigid face. "I must tell you all at last, and <i>now</i>,—that—that—" and -her voice sank till it became a whisper—but an audible whisper, "I am -his <i>wife</i>!"</p> - -<p>"Nancy!" ejaculated Mrs. De Wolfe, in a key of contrasting depth.</p> - -<p>"It's true," she continued with livid lips, "we were married by -my father's deathbed, two and a half years ago, and——" here she -completely broke down.</p> - -<p>"Nancy, child, don't, <i>I'll</i> tell it," volunteered Mrs. Ffinch, -stretching out her arm. "No, she is not raving, as you might naturally -suppose," she added, glancing at her companions. "I know all about -it,—and Mrs. Hicks was present,—she saw them married!"</p> - -<p>"Yes," corroborated Mrs. Hicks, "I did, and it's about the only secret -I've ever been able to keep!"</p> - -<p>"But why a secret?" demanded Mrs. De Wolfe, who had recovered her -composure.</p> - -<p>"We were married to relieve my father's mind," replied Nancy, who had -also reclaimed her self-possession. "I was alone in the world, and very -poor, and he was dreadfully unhappy about me; Captain Mayne and I did -not care for one another—in those days! Please!" looking round the -circle—"<i>do</i> forgive me for deceiving you,—but we agreed to keep the -marriage secret, and to be strangers always, and I must confess, that -<i>I</i> behaved very badly. I was distracted, and I ran away; but I was so -young, and so heart-broken! It is different now; I shall leave with -Mrs. Hicks on Friday, and pray that I may be in time.—I am going to -send off a cable," and looking like the wraith of Nancy Travers, she -left them.</p> - -<p>The old mahogany door closed upon a long expressive silence, presently -to be broken by Mrs. Ffinch, who gladly took up her parable. Here was -<i>her</i> hour! what an opening for her natural eloquence, and love of -dominating a situation! As she unravelled Nancy's past, she had the -supreme happiness of knowing, that her listeners actually hung upon -her words,—especially old Mr. Mayne, with his head advanced, and hand -behind his left and best, ear!</p> - -<p>In a few short and telling sentences, she described Nancy's adoration -of her father, their ideally happy life,—the terrible scene with the -panther, Mayne's bad shot, his rescue by Travers, and how when Travers -was dying, Mayne had come forward, and undertaken the charge of Nancy. -How immediately after the funeral Nancy, in a condition of frenzied -grief, had written a letter of farewell and repudiation to Mayne,—and -taken refuge with her old nurse at Coimbatore.</p> - -<p>"Aye, it really was a terrible letter," chimed in Mrs. Hicks, "I was -there, when he read it, and he looked knocked all of a 'eap.—First he -showed it to Teddy Dawson, and then to me. She said as how she blamed -him, and how she hated him,—and so he let her go,—what else could he -do?"—throwing herself back in her chair, and folding her arms with an -air of finality—then added as an afterthought, "but he made her a -good allowance!"</p> - -<p>"Which she never touched," supplemented Mrs. Ffinch, "the money has -lain all this time in Grindlay's Bank; they held no communication -with one another, each went their own way: he as a bachelor, she, as -an unmarried girl, until they came to London,—where Fate threw them -together, in spite of themselves."</p> - -<p>"So all the time, there <i>was</i> a girl in the background!—a girl to -whom he sent money," said Mrs. Horne,—who had a wonderful faculty for -remembering—but not disseminating—scraps of gossip. "There's never -smoke without a fire, and to think, that all the time it should be -<i>Nancy</i>."</p> - -<p>"It was a case of a foolish, hasty, wedding," declared Mrs. Ffinch -judicially; "had I been at home, I would never have allowed it to take -place. Unfortunately I happened to be absent for a few days, and in -those few days, occurred Nancy's marriage, and her father's death. I -think that Derek Mayne,—though he meant well,—behaved like a lunatic!"</p> - -<p>"No," corrected his uncle, thumping on the table, "he behaved like a -man of honour! I was always fond of Derek, and now I'm <i>proud</i> of him! -I'll just go and see what that girl is doing?" and taking his stick, he -hobbled out of the room.</p> - -<p>When Nancy found Mrs. De Wolfe alone, she said, "Hundreds of times -I've wanted to speak, and to tell you,—but I dared not; for I felt, -that if I opened my lips, the secret would spread; if I told one, I -might tell another; and when I saw Derek, I realized that we were to be -strangers,—in fact he said so in the plainest terms. There was nothing -for it but silence,—at first."</p> - -<p>"And now?" inquired her friend, with grave significance.</p> - -<p>"Now,—only for my money,—I believe he would have made it up! Money, -or no money, I'm going out on Friday; I have already secured my -berth, by telephone,—but oh, dear, dear Auntie, supposing I am <i>too -late</i>!"—and as she sank on her knees and buried her face on the old -lady's lap,—her sobs were heartbreaking.</p> - -<p>"Don't meet trouble half way, my child," said Mrs. De Wolfe, "though -crying will relieve your poor heart. It is only the <i>young</i>, the lucky -young, who can weep. Remember that the Maynes are as tough as leather; -why, look at that old man downstairs; four months ago, a horse -rolled upon him, and broke his leg, and three ribs; to-day, he was -out shooting pheasants! Oh, Nancy my dear, how often I've wished that -you, and Derek would take to one another,—and only to think, that you -were married all the time! Well, in my long, and not uneventful life, -you have given me the most stunning surprise, I have ever experienced! -<i>Now</i> I can understand why Derek never came to the house, and went out -of his way to avoid me."</p> - -<p>"Everything is my fault. Auntie Wolfe," sobbed Nancy, "I'm afraid you -will never care for me any more, nor trust me: everyone will think me -so secretive, and deceitful,—and so I <i>was</i>!"</p> - -<p>"It will be all right, my dear, if only Derek recovers, and you make -him happy,—as I believe you can. By and by you will both come home, -and settle among us,—and your strange story will be forgotten."</p> - -<hr class="tb" /> - -<p>As soon as Captain Mayne was convalescent, he and his wife travelled -down to Fairplains, where they were the guests of Mr. and Mrs. Dawson; -and in that familiar and unchanged verandah, he once more occupied -his favourite shabby chair, and surveyed from his place, the dim blue -plains. All the neighbours and employees flocked to the bungalow, -to hail and welcome Nancy. Francis received his "Little Missy" with -rapturous joy, and a few trickling tears.—As for Togo, that faithful -heart was always hers.</p> - -<p>When Miss Travers, at a few hours' notice, had hurried out to India, to -marry, and nurse, Captain Mayne; it was generally believed that this -was but the romantic sequel, to a long and mysterious engagement.</p> - -<p>Not more than two or three hundred people are in possession of the -truth!</p> - - -<p class="ph2">THE END</p> - -<hr class="tb" /> - -<h3>By the same Author</h3> - -<p class="ph2"><i>Each in Cloth</i></p> - -<p class="ph2">A RASH EXPERIMENT</p> - -<p class="ph2">WHAT SHE OVERHEARD</p> - -<p class="ph2">IN OLD MADRAS</p> - -<p class="ph2">THE SERPENT'S TOOTH</p> - -<hr class="tb" /> - - -<p class="ph2"><i>Printed in Great Britain by Ebenezer Baylis & Son, Worcester.</i></p> - -<div style='display:block; margin-top:4em'>*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK GIVEN IN MARRIAGE ***</div> -<div style='text-align:left'> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -Updated editions will replace the previous one—the old editions will -be renamed. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -Creating the works from print editions not protected by U.S. copyright -law means that no one owns a United States copyright in these works, -so the Foundation (and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United -States without permission and without paying copyright -royalties. 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